Welsh Government has pledged the investment to upgrade Welsh Water’s pumping station under a temporary agreement with the Canal & River Trust, securing short-term water supply to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.
The funding will support a temporary arrangement in place until April 2026, following legislative changes in 2018 that restricted water abstraction from the River Usk and created ongoing supply challenges for the canal.
Nick Thomas-Symonds, MP for Torfaen, said: “This is a significant investment from the Welsh Government, and shows their commitment to protecting the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.
“Establishing the Task and Finish Group is a welcome step to finding a long-term, sustainable solution to the canal’s water supply, and I look forward to working with the group in supporting these efforts.
“I also pay tribute to the tireless campaigning of the Bridge 46 to Five Locks group who do so much for the Mon & Brec.”
A stakeholder meeting was held in May, followed by a Welsh Government meeting on July 10 to discuss both immediate and long-term solutions.
Lynne Neagle, MS for Torfaen, said: “I am absolutely delighted the Welsh Government has come forward with the £5m funding to upgrade the pumping station that is supporting the temporary agreement to provide water for the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal.”
The newly announced Task and Finish Group will explore long-term water supply solutions and identify funding for further infrastructure improvements.