Dr Alex Langlands, Associate Professor and CHART co-director, with Torsten Bell MP, members of Swansea Council and the team from the Swansea Community Boat Trust
Inspired by long-standing waterways volunteer John Davies and delivered by industry-leading consultants Moss Naylor Young, the study has identified how the lost canals and navigable stretches of the River Tawe offer a vital opportunity to deliver on a host of benefits for Swansea and the wider region. Amongst the many aims of the vision is the regeneration of the Swansea Canal and the Tennant Canal, a vital corollary through which coal was traditionally delivered to the city and the world beyond. A formative element in the emergence of the city and the settlements along its course, through its canal and towpath it has the potential to offer communities up and down the valley the chance to reconnect through walking, cycling, kayaking and paddleboarding. An essential aim is also to consider the impact climate change will have on the valley and how enhancing the blue/green resource can both help to keep cool parts of the city and mitigate in the event of flooding.
The report highlights the huge potential for economic growth in the region brought about by an enhanced waterways network what with plans afoot to redevelop stretches of the Tennant Canal and Neath Canal. A regional inland waterway would not only enhance local amenity value but could serve as a vital asset in increasing tourism to the area, bringing coherency to the Wales Coastal path through a challenging stretch of it course and better connecting up by foot, bike and water the medieval towns of Swansea and Neath.
The Tawe navigation is one of the most underrated assets of the Swansea Valley, a navigable waterway as far as Landore but potentially extended through the Fendrod Lake to connect with Clydach beyond. Proposals are in place to increase the number of pontoons along the river in a bid to unlock the potential for a bustling riverine community.
“The grant from Swansea University / MEDR was greatly appreciated because without it the “New Destinations” study would not have been possible for a community based organisation like Swansea Community Boat Trust. The support provided by Dr. Alex Langlands was also a key part of this initiative.”
John Davies, Project Co-ordinator, Swansea Community Boat Trust.
“Swansea University is delighted to have supported the Swansea Community Boat Trust in a small way to deliver this important report on the huge potential Swansea’s inland waterways and river have for improving the quality of life and economic vibrancy of the city and its region.
The report proposes a bold and ambitious plan mapped against the need for climate mitigation and adaption, flood remediation, green-space provision, amenity value and economic regeneration. More than anything though, it represents a forward-looking ambition that has at its heart the wellbeing of future generations”.
Dr. Alex Langlands
For further information, please contact NewDestinations@scbt.org.uk
