Yesterday British Waterways announced that they were withdrawing from the Cotswold Canals Partnership.

While this is a body blow to the hope many people have in Stroud District I would say that we must not jump to conclusions too soon.

British Waterways  Chief Executive Robin  Evans says that “We have thought long and hard over this decision and know  it will disappoint our partners in the project.  Ultimately, however, we have a finite pot of money and the needs of our existing waterways must take priority”

It remains to be seen whether the Canal Project can continue.  I certainly hope that it does and brings all the benefits to the Stroud area we have been promised.  As I said, it’s a little early to jump to conclusions and certainly not the time for recrimination.