In February we told you that the Environment Agency (EA) and Canal and River Trust (the Trust) had established a joint working group to explore different options for running the 640 miles of EA-managed river navigations.

We wanted to let you know that work is continuing and, following an initial information-gathering exercise carried out by the joint working group, the Boards of the Environment Agency (EA) and Canal & River Trust have agreed to continue with further work to explore the basis for this potential transfer of river navigations from the EA to the Trust. 

Both Boards believe the move, subject to agreement, has the potential to create a more integrated national inland waterway network, and a sustainable future for the river navigations, to the benefit of the people who use and enjoy them.

We’re looking at this thoroughly, in the best interests of the navigations, and we will speak with our people and our stakeholders should agreement to transfer be given.

In the meantime, please contact Mark Ormrod, Environment & Business Manager – Navigation, if you have any questions: mark.ormrod@environment-agency.gov.uk

Cherie Pitcher-Schofield | Committee Services Officer, Environment Agency