Fundraising appeal to restore the Grand Western Canal

The Friends of the Grand Western Canal is raising money to assist in the rebuild of the canal’s embankment at Halberton after its dramatic collapse on 21st November 2012 following heavy rainfall.

Since those initial days, and the work done by many to make the situation safe, Devon County Council undertook to investigate the feasibility of, and options for, the potential restoration of the breach. This includes a detailed engineering assessment of entire canal, as well as the damaged section, and consideration to the future management of the canal’s water levels. It’s expected that a report on the canal will be discussed by the Council’s Cabinet in February.

Councillor Roger Croad, the Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for the canal, says: “It’s too early to say right now what our options might be, as we’re awaiting the outcome of feasibility study and engineering assessment.

“However we fully support the feelings of the Friends of the Grand Western Canal and of the local community who want to see the canal restored to its former glory.”

Friends of the Grand Western Canal have created a Just Giving webpage, and have so far raised over £1,650 in donations from across the country, from people who know the canal and heard about its collapse. They’re also distributing collecting boxes throughout mid Devon to local businesses that have requested them.

Councillor Des Hannon, Chairman of the canal’s Joint Advisory Committee and County Councillor for Tiverton East, says: “It’s all too tempting to throw in the towel when a problem’s this big. That’s why I’m absolutely delighted by the energetic response from people locally and further afield who love our canal. “The Friends of the Grand Western Canal is doing a sterling job in attracting funds, and the whole canal family is grateful for their efforts.

“I urge everyone who knows our canal and who has enjoyed its peace and tranquillity to donate what they can – especially now, as we prepare for our 200th birthday.”

Friends Chair, Robert Hodgson says: “The photograph of the canal on the 2012 Country File calendar is just one reminder of what we could be missing if the breach is not repaired as soon as possible. We have started distributing boxes to those who’ve asked for them and have plenty more.”

Donations to the Friends of the Grand Western Canal’s campaign to restore the canal can be made here. For more information about the canal visit Devon County Council’s website.