Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has called on the Welsh Government to step in and provide a long term solution to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.
The canal, which is situated in Monmouthshire and runs from Brecon to Newport, has recently been under threat due to changes to their abstraction licence.
Mr Fox has been a vocal supporter of the canal, and has long been calling for a sustainable solution to secure the long term future of the waterway.
During a debate in the Senedd on Wednesday, which was brought about by a petition from Cllr Jan Butler, Mr Fox showcased how integral the canal was to the local community, habitat, and economy, supporting over 275 jobs, and generating income of £30million per year.
The Monmouth MS called on the Welsh Government to step in, support the canal, and provide a long-term solution to the problem.
Local MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has said:
“In Monmouthshire we are lucky to have so much natural beauty, and the Canal is certainly one of the jewels in our crown. I am very grateful to Cllr Butler for arranging the petition, which has allowed this very important issue to be debated today.
“It has been a worrying few months for users, businesses and the canal itself, with a slight reprieve coming a few months ago to secure the canal over the coming months, but more must be done as this is only a short term solution.
“The Welsh Government have repeatedly stated the canal is not their responsibility, but I am afraid that no responsible Government would risk the future of such an essential asset.
“It is astonishing to me that the canal does not have the same conservation designation as the River Usk, despite it playing a vital role in the county’s biodiversity and natural beauty.
“The Welsh Government need to take a stand on this issue, and support our businesses and communities. I will not stop with this until a long term solution is found.”
