April 2020
Over the years the work by the Thames & Medway Canal Association has resulted in changes to Government planning policy, improvements to the canal and environs and the raising of awareness of the canal and it’s potential for restoration.
Following representations by the Association at a Public Enquiry in 1992, local planning policy now states that all developments must preserve the line of the canal for potential future restoration.
The Association has organised large-scale clearances (attracting several hundred volunteers), monthly working parties, dredging and reed clearance, as well as water management collation and maintenance work.
Continuing day-to-day expenses are a never-ending challenge but we have managed to obtain grants sufficient to establish permanent cabins at both Higham and Gravesend.
We undertake weekly tasks along the towpath ensuring it is safe, tidy and pleasant to use and have installed litter bins, seats and information boards.
In promoting the canal, the Association has encouraged local youngsters to canoe, raft and coracle build and row on the canal as well as inform the local residents of it’s existence and history.
The Association’s influence and subsequent pressure has resulted in several reports, strategies and studies being completed in partnership with Gravesham Borough Council and other agencies including SEEDA, Thames Gateway Kent Urban, SUSTRANS and the IWA.
A recent Inland Waterways Amenity Advisory Council report on the Restoration Priorities included the Thames and Medway Canal and recognised it as being of medium heritage and high nature conservation interest.
The Association has forged links with voluntary and youth groups and gained support from a number of conservation groups and historical societies.