The Parish Council (PC) know many residents have been asking for an update on the canal. Unfortunately, despite exploring every lawful option available, we are not currently able to proceed with pumping water into the canal.
As many residents know, our usual abstraction point became unavailable. The PC therefore immediately explored every possible alternative.
The PC contacted the Environment Agency to request an emergency variation to our abstraction licence, which has been in place for over 15 years. Unfortunately, it was advised that any changes must follow the standard licence variation process.
While awaiting that response, the PC investigated whether it could use the exemption allowing abstraction of up to 20 cubic metres of water. This involved:
- Identifying a suitable alternative abstraction point.
- Obtaining permission from the relevant landowners.
- Securing an Occupation Licence from Gloucestershire Highways for the generator.
- Obtaining approval to take pipework safely across the road using approved ramps and signage.
- Modifying the hired pipework to accommodate the road crossing.
- Consulting the Internal Drainage Board to ensure the generator would not interfere with telemetry equipment.
- Obtaining a resident’s permission for the pipework to pass through their garden.
- Purchasing additional signage for the public towpath.
- Arranging appropriate insurance for the operation.
Despite completing all of this work, two significant obstacles have prevented the PC from proceeding:
- The PC’s insurers have confirmed they cannot provide cover for the proposed equipment location, meaning the Parish Council cannot responsibly proceed.
- The Environment Agency has confirmed that the 20 cubic metre exemption cannot be used because the Parish Council already holds an abstraction licence for this purpose.
The remaining options are to apply for a variation to the existing licence or seek a temporary transfer of abstraction rights from another licence holder. Both require formal applications and cannot be implemented immediately. However, the PC are continuing discussions with the Environment Agency regarding another option they have suggested.
The PC fully appreciate how disappointing this news will be. Councillors and the Clerk have invested considerable time over recent weeks exploring every lawful and practical solution, and the PC are grateful to the organisations, landowners and residents who have offered their assistance.
The Parish Council remains committed to finding both an immediate solution and a long-term solution and will continue working with the Environment Agency and other relevant organisations. We will keep residents informed as soon as there are any further developments.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.