Maintenance
Caring for the Canal, Year-Round
Restoring the Cotswold Canals is a remarkable achievement, but the real work begins once the water starts flowing. Maintaining a historic waterway like the Stroudwater Navigation and the Thames & Severn Canal requires continuous attention, care, and passion. Every stretch of restored canal must be kept navigable, safe, and environmentally healthy — not just for boaters and walkers, but for the wildlife that now calls it home.
From trimming back vegetation and dredging silt, to keeping towpaths walkable and locks in working order, this vital maintenance is a cornerstone of the Cotswold Canals Trust’s mission.
What’s more, all of it is done by our incredible volunteers, whose expertise, dedication, and hard work make this living waterway possible. Their ongoing efforts ensure that the canals are not just restored, but remain thriving, beautiful spaces for the community and nature alike.
What We Do
Wildlife Habitat Maintenance
Preserving and enhancing spaces for flora and fauna, including our ponds, reed beds, and new nature reserves.
Lock Keepers
Our volunteer lock keepers play a vital role in supporting boaters, maintaining safe navigation, and keeping locks in good condition. They offer assistance, local knowledge, and help preserve the smooth operation of these historic structures.
Work Boats & Dredging
Our volunteer-led work boat crews play a key role in dredging the canal, removing built-up silt, and keeping the water channel clear for navigation and wildlife. These efforts ensure steady water flow, improve habitat quality, and prepare sections of canal for future boat traffic.
Towpath Management
Trimming back overgrowth, repairing surfaces, and ensuring access for walkers, cyclists, and mobility users.
Litter Picks & Clean-Ups
Community clean-up events and ongoing efforts to remove litter and debris from the canal and banks.
Structure Checks
Regular inspection and upkeep of locks, bridges, culverts, and spill weirs to keep them in good working order.
Vegetation Control
Managing hedgerows, trees, and invasive species to keep the waterway open and healthy.
This essential maintenance work is carried out by our fantastic team of volunteers. Whether you enjoy hands-on work on the water or love gardening and nature, there’s a place for you.