Waterways > Grand Union Canal – Buckingham Arm
Restoring the Old Stratford Arm and its extension, the Buckingham Arm, from Cosgrove through to the town of Buckingham.
The length of the Old Stratford and Buckingham Arm that is navigable
or 17km. The length of the Buckingham Arm that is no longer navigable.
The year the Buckingham Canal Society was formed
Leaving the Grand Union Canal at Cosgrove, a short stretch of the Old Stratford Arm is used for moorings. The aim is to restore the Old Stratford Arm and its extension, the Buckingham Arm, through to the town of Buckingham.
A Halcrow engineering study has found the project to be feasible, though with significant issues to address such as crossing the A5 dual carriageway. Possible solutions have been identified. Four sites are currently being worked by Buckingham Canal Society volunteers. So far a traditional stone bridge has been restored, a lock is under restoration and progress is being made towards re-watering a site near Buckingham. The Society has developed partnerships with local authorities and there is increasing local public awareness.
IWA Milton Keynes Branch (derelict section)
IWA Northampton Branch (navigable section)
Restoring the UK’s blue infrastructure – our inherited network of navigable canals and rivers – is good for people and places.
The advantages of the proposed waterways far exceed leisure boating alone. They incorporate a nature reserve, footpaths and cycle ways, the potential to improve flora and fauna and will contribute to the health and wellbeing of locals and visitors.
Hundreds of miles of waterways – along with their unique heritage and habitats – are currently starved of funding and rely on constant lobbying by us to safeguard their future.
Help protect and restore the waterways you love.