West Midlands Canals to Get £100,000 Revamp

The Canal & River Trust has mapped the ecological footprint of its waterways in England and Wales, revealing their critical role in supporting wildlife and providing green spaces for millions. The trust warns that climate change, pollution, and invasive species threaten the century-old canal network, necessitating significant investment for resilience. In a related initiative, the trust is enhancing over seven miles of canals in the West Midlands as part of the Wild Waterways project, funded by £100,000 from the West Midlands Combined Authority. This project aims to transform neglected canal areas into urban nature sites by planting new habitats and improving existing ones, while also encouraging community involvement in maintenance. Local leaders emphasize that these improvements will promote health and well-being by providing attractive spaces for outdoor activities. Additionally, the canals serve as vital ecological corridors, facilitating wildlife movement through urban landscapes.