Supporting Safer Towpaths with the New Towpath Code
The Cotswold Canals Trust is proud to support Stroud Valleys Canals Company (SVCC) in promoting the newly refreshed Towpath Code, helping to encourage safer, more respectful use of our canals and towpaths.
Working together, we have helped refresh the branding and presentation of the Towpath Code to improve its visibility and make it easier to share across the canal network, online and within the local community.
As our canals continue to welcome more visitors than ever before, the Towpath Code provides simple guidance to help everyone enjoy these shared spaces safely. Whether you’re walking, cycling, boating, paddleboarding, fishing or simply enjoying nature, we all have a part to play in looking after the canals and respecting one another.
The code reminds visitors to:
- Give pedestrians priority.
- Slow down and ring a bell when cycling.
- Keep dogs on a short lead and clean up after them.
- Respect wildlife and fellow towpath users.
- Leave lifesaving equipment and canal infrastructure untouched.
- Take litter home or use the bins provided.
- Report anti-social behaviour to the appropriate authorities.
Please note that horses, e-scooters, motorcycles and modified e-bikes are not permitted on the towpath.
The launch follows an increase in anti-social behaviour reported along the canal corridor, including littering, vandalism, dog fouling and the movement of emergency lifesaving equipment. By working together and following the Towpath Code, we can help ensure our canals remain safe, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.
If you witness anti-social behaviour, please report it to Stroud District Council at:
www.stroud.gov.uk/online-services/report-it/antisocial-behaviour/
📞 0800 075 6699
There is continued action to support safer waterways through volunteer-led Canal Walk & Talk sessions, providing a friendly presence along the towpath while engaging with local communities and helping to identify any issues.
Please join one of the next sessions, which are taking place on:
3 August, 7pm – Ebley to Wallbridge
3 September, 10am – Bowbridge to Brimscombe
28 October, 10am – Ebley to Stonehouse
19 November, 10am – Ebley to Wallbridge
23 December, 10am – Bowbridge to Brimscombe
Together, we can all help protect our canals.
Kindness flows here. Share the space and drop your pace.
