IWA welcomed over 100 members to its 66th Annual General Meeting on 27th September at the Jubilee Centre in Nottingham, with 80 people attending in person and 23 joining via Zoom. National Chair, Mike Wills, opened the day with thanks to members, staff and volunteers for their continued support.
The event began with an energetic presentation from Campaigns & Public Affairs Director, Charlie Norman. Charlie highlighted the successes of IWA’s campaigns, from the Bridgewater Canal breach, which garnered national press coverage, to Langport’s river regeneration project, which demonstrated the power of collaboration. Looking ahead, Charlie described 2025 as a strategic year to prepare IWA for an even stronger 2026.
An exciting announcement was the upcoming launch of the Waterways Risk Index, a pioneering mapping system unique to IWA, which will identify the most urgent challenges facing the network. Charlie emphasised how this evidence-led approach will strengthen IWA’s voice in parliament, in the press, and with communities.
There were also updates on the progress of IWA’s Freight Group and Sustainable Boating Group, alongside praise for campaigns such as Better by Barge. Each example underlined IWA’s influence in shaping the future of Britain’s waterways.
Later, Hannah Rigley and Paul Thomas shared the story of this summer’s Mon & Brec campaign. Facing unprecedented low water levels and restrictions, IWA worked alongside CRT and local communities to highlight the risks. The campaign petition gathered 14,000 signatures, secured cross-party support at the Senedd, and pushed for both immediate solutions and long-term resilience.
The formal AGM session saw members approve the minutes of the previous meeting, review finance updates, and confirm the reappointment of Trustees Mike Wills and Dave Chapman. Mike reflected that IWA has entered a new period of clarity and consolidation, with strengthened objectives and renewed energy.
The afternoon featured the presentation of IWA’s National Awards and the Sustainable Boating Awards, recognising outstanding contributions across the association. Members also heard specialist talks on sustainable boating, water management and restoration, before departing for guided visits to local canal restoration sites.
