Chichester Canal represented at Houses of Parliament

Chichester Canal joins national waterways reception

Chichester Ship Canal Trust joined MPs, members of the House of Lords and members of waterway restoration groups nationwide at a Parliamentary reception. Inland Waterways Association (IWA) hosted the reception.

The annual event was held at the Houses of Parliament, and Mark Stoneham, Trustee, represented the Canal. He said, ‘Unfortunately I wasn’t able to help out with Brexit.  But I did manage to meet many waterways colleagues from across the country. It was fascinating to see the size of some of the projects undertaken.’ Activities supported by the IWA, (Chichester Canal is a member), fall broadly into four categories:

Regeneration, Personal development / Wellbeing, Creating Community Spaces and Enhancing Heritage and Habitats.

Mark reflected that, ‘Whilst our regeneration need is not significant compared to work in inner cities, it is clear Chichester Ship Canal Trust is doing great work in the other three areas. It’s a reminder that we must highlight the work we’re doing, and plan to do, to key decision makers and our elected representatives.’

Mark took away a few lessons from the reception speakers. First, the job is never finished. Secondly, do it a bit at a time. Thirdly, and most importantly, always appreciate the great support from volunteers, without whom nothing would be possible.

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