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| Canals action plan |
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DOWNLOAD THE FULL ACTION PLAN: in pdf or text format
Aims
1. To increase knowledge and understanding
of canals and associated habitats in London.
2. To ensure the protection, enhancement and
appropriate management of canal habitats in London for the benefit
of biodiversity and enjoyment of current and future generations.
3. To realise the potential of the canal and
its biodiversity as an accessible resource for education, recreation
and public involvement.
Canals, constructed
to meet the transport needs of the Industrial Revolution,
were the motorways of their day, and their construction made
a major impact on the 18th and 19th century landscapes. However,
once established, canals soon developed their own flora and
fauna and today many are designated as important wildlife
sites at local, national and international level.
The London canal network was cut between 1767 and 1830 to
provide a transport link within London and between the capital
and the industrial towns of the Midlands and the north. This
Habitat Action Plan covers artificial waterways for which
British Waterways London has management responsibilities;
Grand Union Canal (Main Line and Paddington Arm), the Regent's
Canal, the River Lee Navigation, Hertford Union Canal and
the Limehouse Cut, including the Docklands water spaces. Although
initially a success, their importance waned with the advent
of railways in the latter part of the 19th century.
Today, the network of canals has developed into a unique asset
for nature conservation in London, whilst becoming an increasingly
important amenity and recreational resource.
The canal network brings linear wetlands into the heart of
London, creating an important wildlife resource within an
otherwise urban area. This proximity to London's human population
creates a unique opportunity to provide public access to wildlife.
Contact
The Lead for this habitat is the British Waterways.
Leela O’Dea
British Waterways London
1 Sheldon Square
Paddington Central
London W2 6TT
Tel: 020 7985 7200
Email: Leela.O’[email protected]
Web: www.britishwaterways.co.uk
Photo © British Waterways
This is only a summary - download
the full audit in pdf
or text format
Related documents: None
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