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Lichfield Branch
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• A View From The Helm Page 3
• Forthcoming Events Page 5 Walks, Meetings and Events until September 2026
• Recent Activities Page 7 Walks and Meetings
• New Leaflet Box at Fradley Page 9
• New Committee Member Page 10
• Branch AGM Minutes Page 10
• Branch AGM Chairman’s Report Page 13
• Branch AGM Treasurer’s Report Page 15
• Major Canal Closure in Penkridge Page 17
• Tips From River Canal Rescue Page 17
• Planning Matters Page 21
• Editorial Notice Page 25
• Committee List Page 26
Front page photos—From top. Cakes at the Branch AGM, walkers on the Curly Wyrley, the new leaflet box at Fradley
The IWA may not agree with opinions expressed in this magazine but encourages publication as a matter of interest. Nothing printed may be construed as policy, or as an official pronouncement, unless specifically identified as such. The Inland Waterways Association is a non-profit distributing company limited by guarantee. Registered in England no. 612245. Registered as a charity no. 212342 Registered Office: Hardy House, Northbridge Road. Berkhamsted HP4 1EF Tel: 01494 783453 Web: www.waterways.org.uk
Lichfield Branch
View From The Helm
Spring is always a welcome time of the year, and especially so at the moment after one of the wettest winters on record. However difficult and depressing it was to have to endure, it is of course just what our canals needed after all of the water shortage issues last summer.
Being a liveaboard boater I love the fact that always being so close to the windows means I notice what the weather is doing more than I used to when we lived in a house, we love this aspect of living afloat. However, when it rains day after day with grey skies and precious little sunshine, it can get a little tedious and depressing.
When we’re not on the move we enjoy walks along the various towpaths around our area, but in places they were muddier than in previous winters, making walking more challenging and less enjoyable. Now that winter is behind us we have spring and summer to look forward to, and getting out and about in the fresh air more.
I’m sure you all know that this year is the IWA’s 80th and there are events happening all over the country to celebrate this amazing achievement. I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that had it not been for the IWA we wouldn’t have many of the canals and navigable rivers we are able to enjoy today.
What wonderful foresight IWA’s founders Aickman and Rolt had, to recognise the potential for our canals and rivers to become a leisure resource at a time when they were being abandoned, completely closed, or built over in many places.
It’s good that the IWA today is still so relevant, perhaps not in quite the same way, but we are still very much a campaigning organisation and have had many successes in recent years with looking after the interests of everyone who enjoys our wonderful network of waterways whether it be people afloat or those using the towpaths.
Restoration is still very much at the forefront of what we do, in the form of the ‘Waterway Recovery Group’ (WRG) arm of the association. Throughout the country our WRG teams of volunteers go along to help with various restoration schemes, sharing their expertise and years of experience to provide some much needed help. Often it’s for weekends but sometimes it can be for a week or fortnight at a time. As well as the WRG physically helping out our local restoration groups, our branch regularly donates money to their fund raising initiatives as well.
In recent times the IWA has been leading the ‘Fund Britain’s Waterways’ campaign, supported by over 150 waterways related businesses and organisations, campaigning for more Government funding. It’s been tough going but I think we are now beginning to see some hopeful signs that finally it is being recognised that investment is needed in order to maintain our waterways and preserve them for future generations, however we are still a very long way off achieving what is needed.
At a local level, we continue to be an active and vibrant branch with activities
Lichfield Branch
throughout the year, and this includes having a presence at various festivals within our area. We’d like to do more, but in order to do so we need a little
bit of help, so please get in touch if you’d like to join in.
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Finally, I’d like to make you aware of a new volunteering opportunity we’ve introduced. I’m sure you know about the winter offside vegetation cutting which we’ve been doing since 2017. This has been very successful; however some potential volunteers have been put off joining in for various reasons, not least the inclement winter weather but also the commitment needed and the physical aspects of carrying out the work.
by Margaret Beardsmore
In April we began a regular summer volunteering programme involving much easier physical work, and smaller ‘bite sized’ days of only 3 hours or so duration. Every Friday morning we will be carrying out various tasks along the towpaths within about a 12 mile radius of Fradley Junction.
These will include, strimming, mowing, pruning, litter picking, minor repairs to structures, clearing by-washes and culverts, removing weeds and moss from lock walls/gates, the latter being from a workboat obviously.
Unlike the winter work, there isn’t the same level of commitment needed. To just come along occasionally would be fine, so why not give it a try? Just send me an email or phone me if you are interested.
From top. Donations to Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, Stafford Riverway Link and Truman Enterprise Narrowboat Trust
Photos
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Finally I’d just like to wish you all a wonderful summer of enjoying our amazing waterways, whether it is on foot or floating!
Forthcoming Events
All our Social Meetings will be held at Darwin Hall, off Heathcot Place, Lichfield WS13 6RQ at 7:15pm for a 7:30pm start.
Thursday 7th May 2026—Guided Walk
Minworth and the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal
This is an easy 3.5 mile walk with no stiles, on a broad sandy path, a quiet country lane, a public footpath and a concreted section of towpath. We first head west along the canal to Minworth Green Bridge where we leave the towpath and walk briefly through Minworth. We then pick up a broad sandy path beside the new Amazon development and walk in the direction of Over Green, this time slightly uphill. From there it is downhill back to our starting point.
Neil
Meet 10:15 for a 10:30 start on Thursday 7th May 2026 in the car park of The Cuttle Bridge Inn, Kingsbury Road, Sutton Coldfield B76 9DP. Contact Clive Walker: clive.walker@waterways.org.uk
Saturday/Sunday 16th/17th May 2026—Moira Canal Festival
It is spring, and time for the Moira Canal Festival again. The first Moira Canal Festival was held over 25 years ago, and it has been held almost every year since. The Moira Furnace is an ideal site for the event, with the adjacent Ashby Canal and its visiting boats included in the scene.
This year we are pleased to host Mike Woodhams, Britains Got Talent finalist. Mike made his mark in 2024, winning people over with an astonishing mix of sharp impressions of popular singers. We might hear Kate Bush, David Bowie and Lulu, or Elton John and Britney Spears. With strong vocals and stage presence, whether you are front and centre or passing by with an ice cream, he's sure to
pull you in!
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We are also pleased to announce the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be providing a flypast on both days with aircraft from their impressive fleet. Spitfire, Hurricane? Come along to find out. There will be children’s entertainment, Morris dancing, music, a range of stalls and rides, classic cars, bar and refreshments, and don’t forget Mother Duck and her annual Ashby Canal Duck Race!
Profits from the event will go towards the continuing Ashby Canal restoration. Look out for the Ashby Canal Association stand on the festival site and members will be pleased to provide further information on the progress of the restoration projectAnd if you want to learn more about the history of the Ashby Canal, you can buy a copy of ‘Ashby Canal, Past, Present and Future’, from their stand at the special Festival price of £7.
Looking forward to seeing you
Admission £7 Adults £3 children 5-15, Moira Furnace, Furnace Lane, Moira, DE12 6AT
The Branch will have a stand at the Festival. If you can help please contact Helen on 01543 491161 or helen.whitehouse@waterways.org.uk
Saturday/Sunday 16th/17th May 2026—Stafford Riverway Link Open Weekend
Stafford Riverway Link will be holding an open weekend on 16th/17th May. There will be boat trips, trade boats, food stalls, craft stalls and Titanic Brewery will be bringing their bar. See Page 18 for full details.
To be held at Baswich Lane, Stafford ST18 0YJ. What Three Words cracks lowest mile. Open from 10am to 5pm. Admission free.
Sunday 2nd August 2026—Lockwind
We will again be holding a lockwind at Barton Turn Lock to spread the word to passers by and boaters about IWA. We will also be selling cakes to raise funds for the Branch.
If you can help on the day or bake cakes for the stand that would be great. Please contact Helen Whitehouse on 01543 491161 or helen.whitehouse@waterways.org.uk
We have a fun and social day chatting to people and end the day with food from the Barton Turns pub by the lock.
Lichfield Branch
Saturday/Sunday 15th/16th August 2026—
Brownhills Canal Festival
The Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust (L&H) will again be holding their Festival on the Wyrley & Essington Canal at Brownhills. There will be lots of stalls on the bank and floating traders on the water with many visiting boats lining the opposite bank. A great day out.
Thursday 10th September 2026
—Guided Walk
Guided walk starting from Gnosall—keep an eye on the website for details
Friday 18th September 2026—
Social Meeting
Branch member Adrian Wedgwood will give us a talk on his favourite subject BEER!. It will actually be about Burton and it’s Breweries in the 1950s and 1960s of which there were many. No samples unfortunately.
Recent Activities
Friday 20th February 2026
—Social Meeting Bringing Boats Back To Burslem
Our February talk was given to us by Dave Broome of the Burslem Port Trust. This was an illustrated talk on the history of the Burslem Branch Canal, the achievements of the Trust so far and their ambitious plans for the future. The canal was a very short branch (0.4 miles) coming off the Trent & Mersey Canal at Middleport and leading to Burslem Port.
Thursday 5th March 2026—
Guided Walk
Pelsall and the Wyrley & Essington Canal
Artist’s Impression of Burslem Port
The Fingerpost Pub at Yorks Bridge decided to close temporarily whilst a new bridge was being built across the canal. Work on the construction had started some months earlier, but due to a series of complicated traffic lights customers were just not stopping at the pub. I had booked a table at the Finger Post earlier in January, and to their credit the landlord phoned me up in February to apologise. I opted instead for a meal at The Turf Lodge, aka Toby Carvery on the A5, and I made the necessary
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booking. By coincidence my route went close by the Carvery and so I considered starting from there and crossing the roundabout to pick up the route. I stood by the side of the road for 15 minutes waiting for a safe crossing of the A5 and gave up. I decided instead that we would meet up in Wood Lane by Pelsall Works Bridge and then drive to the pub afterwards. Eight walkers assembled in bright sunshine, amongst them a few new faces. We joined the Cannock Extension Canal by Pelsall Junction and walked as far as Pelsall Road Bridge. We then crossed a field in the direction of Brownhills. Wyrley Common is full of disused coal shafts and several former mineral railways. We stepped down onto the Norton Branch of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS). This branch line primarily transported coal from the Cannock Chase collieries to the main railway network. It remained in use until 1975. We followed its route southwards to Engine Lane, supposedly the site of a Newcomen engine. To our right we could just make out the bed of the Slough Arm, a private canal with one lock.
We rejoined the Curly Wyrley near Jolly Collier Bridge. The towpath becomes The Beacon Way at this point, and we wound our way westwards past the filled in Gilpin Arm, which was abandoned as far back as 1850. Near here there is an incongruous lock paddle on the grass with no sign of a sluice or water leading off it. This section of the canal was once heavily industrialised,
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now it is modern housing. One member of our group recalled fishing in the canal here as a child. Foundry Bridge and Yorks Foundry Bridge are all that remain of the Pelsall Coal and Iron Company, which became the largest prosperous company in the area. The York family owned property and ran businesses around here including the Fingerpost pub, which at that time was known as The Royal Oak. We arrived back at Pelsall Works Bridge in good time to drive in convoy to The Turf Lodge where we enjoyed a carvery and refreshment.
Friday 20th March 2026—Branch AGM and Social Meeting
The formalities of the Branch AGM were soon over (see pages 13&15 for Chairman’s and Treasurer’s reports) and was followed by a talk by Branch member John Parry.
As always John’s talks are incredibly well researched with a wealth of details on “The Upper Trent and Burton Navigations and the Bond End Canal”.
An interesting evening with cakes as well, thanks Heather!
Friday 17th April 2026—Social Meeting
Our final talk of the season was given to us by Bernard Chell. His subject was the Nottingham Canal.
The Nottingham Canal originally extended from a junction with the Cromford Canal just above its junction with the Erewash Canal at Langley Mill to the Trent at Nottingham with several short branches leading to collieries, but most of it has been closed and filled in. Bernard gave us a fascinating story of the building of the canal and it’s gradual decline until it was formally abandoned in 1936.
New Leaflet Box at Fradley
Our leaflet box which had disappeared from Fradley some years ago was finally located in the Canal & River Trust store at Fradley and has recently been refurbished.
After some discussion with CRT this has been placed on a post next to the towpath near the Kingfisher Café.
This will be regularly filled with Membership Forms and Lichfield Lines Magazines to spread the word about IWA to passing boaters and walkers.
Photo Margaret Beardsmore
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Hopefully this will bring in some more members. We have a similar box at Colwich Lock which is also regularly topped up and seems to attract much attention.
A New Committee Member
We are pleased to announce that Helen Whitehouse has rejoined our branch committee. Many of you will know about Helen’s tremendous work for the association both nationally and locally over the last 43 years, culminating in the award last year of the prestigious Cyril Styring Trophy, the highest level of IWA’s accolade awards.
Her vast knowledge, experience and continued support for our branch will be invaluable. With fellow committee member Phil Sharpe having also been awarded the same coveted trophy in 2014 we are indeed fortunate to have two such esteemed individuals helping to run our branch.
IWA LICHFIELD BRANCH
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – 20th MARCH 2026 at 19.30. At Darwin Hall, Lichfield
Present: 32 members were present.
1. Apologies for absence: None.
2. Approval of the minutes of the 2025 AGM and any matters arising from the minutes:
The 2025 Minutes were displayed on screen and were approved unopposed. There were no matters arising from the minutes.
Helen receiving the Cyril Styring Award in 2025
Phil Sharpe receiving the Cyril Styring Award from the then Charman Les Etheridge
Lichfield Branch
3. Report from the Branch Chairman:
Neil Barnett reported on another successful year for the Branch and thanked all those that had contributed in various ways. (His report is attached)
A summary of Branch Activities since the last AGM in April 2025 was displayed on screen, detailing 6 public meetings, 6 canal based walks, winter work parties totalling 630 volunteer hours on offside vegetation control, bridge sign painting and ivy removal, a Lockwind, and a Christmas Dinner. The Branch also attended the national AGM, the Crick Boat Show and the Huddlesford Heritage Gathering, published four issues of our newsletter Lichfield Lines, commented on about 130 planning matters, and donated £1,685 to waterway projects. Thanks were displayed to twelve named members and others for their help with a wide range of activities. The report was received with acclamation.
4. Financial report from the Treasurer:
Sue Gurney presented the Treasurers report which was displayed on screen. The start of year balance was £2,680. Donations in 2025 included £750 to Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust BigGive Appeal, £400 to Stafford Riverway Link CIC, a further £400 to LHCRT, £100 to Truman Narrowboat Trust, and £35 to Pocklington Canal Amenity Society in lieu of speaker expenses, totalling £1,685. In addition, funds were ‘ring-fenced’ at the end of 2025 for donations to be made to local Restoration Groups in the first quarter of 2026. Income in 2025 included donations, raffle & refreshments at meetings, advertising in Lichfield Lines, Branch Sales (net profit £431), and the Lockwind. Net Expenditure included hire of meeting rooms, speaker expenses, a plaque, equipment purchase and storage, and the above donations. The end of year balance was £2675. (The full report is attached and further details are available on request).
The report was received with acclamation and there were no questions arising.
5. Elections to the committee:
a) Members completing 3 years in post and eligible for re-election
b) None this year.
b) Members co-opted since the previous AGM: Helen Whitehouse was willing to stand for election and was duly elected.
c) Any other candidates: There were none.
The Chairman explained that members may be co-opted onto the Branch committee at any time. More help from members would be most welcome in sustaining and expanding our Branch activities, either as committee members or in a supporting role, and especially with help in attending local events.
6. Any resolutions requested by members of the Branch (provided the Branch Chairman was notified in writing of the item at least six weeks prior to the AGM):
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7. Any Other Business:
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Eric Wood reminded us that Lichfield Branch was formed over 40 years ago and congratulated the committee in maintaining it as one of the strongest in the country.
Inland Waterways Association – Lichfield Branch
Annual General Meeting – 20th March 2026
Chairman’s Report/Summary of the last year
At the last AGM little did we know how challenging the year would become for our waterways. The worst drought for 50 years and the huge impact it had with many long -term closures and other unplanned stoppages, and then the dramatic embankment breach at Whitchurch. We were quite lucky in that much of our local network didn’t suffer as badly as some.
However, despite the aforementioned, this last year has been a fairly good one for our branch. Member numbers have held up quite well, and we have attracted some new ones too.
We’ve managed to put together a varied programme of social evenings, walks, our annual ‘Lock Wind’ at Barton Turn and our Christmas lunch at Darnford Moors.
• Winter work parties
Offside Vegetation cutting on the Coventry Canal for 26 miles from Whittington to Marston Junction carried out on Thursdays and Fridays until the end of February.
Total of 630 hours volunteering (962 hours the previous season)
Less hours were achieved this year due to:
a) Not beginning until mid-November instead of the beginning of October due to critically low water levels.
b) 2 weeks lost due to a workboat engine failure
c) 1 week lost when the canal iced over
Towpath work-parties (volunteering) – There were none carried out due to having too few volunteers. However, starting at the end of this month we will be resuming them, working 4 hours every Friday throughout the summer and early autumn.
Sadly, due to a lack of volunteers, we were only able to have a presence at two other events, namely the Crick show in May and the Huddlesford Gathering in September. Although, the Branch was also represented at the IWA National AGM in Nottingham.
Other areas in which the Branch has been busy are:
Publishing 4 issues of Lichfield Lines Newsletter
Commenting on about 130 planning applications and local plan matters
Donating £1,685 to waterways projects
I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us over the last year and look forward to the Branch having another successful year ahead.
Neil Barnett IWA Lichfield Branch Chairman
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Inland Waterways Association – Lichfield Branch Annual General Meeting – 20th March 2026
Treasurer’s Report for 2025
The IWA Lichfield Branch brought forward balance at the start of 2025 was £2,680. This included “ring fenced” funds of £800 for donations being carried forward from December 2024 so the available balance was £1,880. During the year the Branch income from activities and donations (together with the brought forward figure) meant the Branch was able to make donations totalling £1,685 to waterways projects as follows:
£750 to Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust BigGive Appeal
£400 to Stafford Riverway Link CIC
£400 to Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust
£100 to Truman Enterprise Narrowboat Trust
£35 to Pocklington Canal Amenity Society in lieu of speaker expenses
In addition, funds of £700 were “ring fenced” at the end of 2025 for donations to be made to local Restoration Groups in the first quarter of 2026.
Income in 2025 was £3,639 made up of:
£1,232 donations:
£938 donation from Mike Wilcock in lieu of work with Offside Veg team (includes £188 Gift Aid claimed from HMRC)
£167 from various Lichfield Branch walks organised by Clive Walker
£120 from talks given by Neil Barnett & Helen Whitehouse
£7 general donations
£356 raffle and refreshment donations from our public meetings. Thanks to everyone present for their support.
£160 advertising in Lichfield Lines. This comes from adverts in each of the four quarterly magazines.
£578 Branch Sales (the net profit is £431). Thanks to Helen Whitehouse for running the Branch Sales stand.
£131 August Lockwind at Barton Turn
£1,182 Christmas meal
Expenditure in 2025 was £3,644 which included:
£1,685 donations (as detailed above)
£263 hire of hall for public meetings
£244 speaker expenses
£22 plaque for refurbished leaflet box
£100 hire of committee room and expenses for offsite meeting
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£147 purchase of merchandise for Branch Sales (Cost value of stock in hand is £375).
£1182 Christmas meal. This was covered in total by the income for the event. £1 Sum-up card machine transaction charge
Hence, there was a decrease in our general funds of £5 resulting in an end of year balance of £2,675. As this includes the “ring fenced” funds of £700 being carried forward into 2026 for donations to be made, in the first quarter, to local Restoration Groups, the available balance is £1,975.
All in all, a successful year and we look forward to your continued support in 2026. Thank-you.
Sue Gurney IWA Lichfield Branch Treasurer
Major Canal Closure in Penkridge
Over the Christmas/New Year period a major problem with a culvert that bypasses Penkridge lock caused both the canal and the road to be closed. The culvert also passed beneath the adjoining lock cottage causing problems for the householder.
The culvert was finally repaired and the canal re-opened on April 17th although the road remains closed for the present.
This caused a serious disruption to the traffic on the Staffs & Worcs Canal and also on the very busy road leading from Penkridge to Cannock.
Tips From River Canal Rescue
De-winterising tips
As we head towards spring, the temperature change signals the start of the cruising season and with it a need to de-winterise your boat. River Canal Rescue’s managing director, Stephanie Horton, advises what to focus on.
Water
Close any taps left open throughout the winter, replace the water heater plug (if removed) and switch on the water pump. Test the system for leaks or issues, and open/run water through each tap. Start with those closest to the pump and work through to the one furthest away – this will push any air locks through the system. Drain out any water in the tank and refill with fresh drinking water.
Photo Margaret Beardsmore
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Engine
Lichfield Branch
When considering servicing, include the engine, LPG and electrical systems, fire extinguishers and escape hatches. Check the oil (level and condition) - you’ll see whether the engine needs a top-up or service (the latter if the oil’s black). Service your engine yearly or every 250 running hours (whichever comes first).
Change all fluid filters and check the air filter. Even if they’re clean, it’s good practice to change them so they work well for the coming season. Run and test the engine to check for leaks and performance.
Check the antifreeze level - if it’s low, it could be due to a leak; make any necessary repairs and top up levels in case there’s a cold snap (you never know).
At RCR, we undertake engine servicing and inspections from mid-September to midMarch each year with discounted rates for members.
Fuel
Water in the fuel is one of the biggest causes of breakdowns and poor engine performance, so before running the engine, remove any excess water from the water trap filters. If water is present or there are signs of diesel bug (black dust or jelly)dip the tank to identify its severity and treat with a fuel treatment or polish the fuel. If you don’t have a water trap filter, check the main fuel tank using a clear plastic hose. Drop it into the tank (don’t disturb the fuel) and when you feel the bottom, place your thumb over the end to seal it and withdraw the hose. This should provide you with a sample of the tank (plus an indication of any diesel bug contamination) and show the amount of water present.
There is debate around what causes sticky fuel – a change in fuel density that appears to clog up injection pump racks, injectors and filter head plungers, and block fuel filters. A common denominator in all reported cases is the use of fuel treatments. They in themselves are not at fault; but there may be a link with fuel and chemical breakdown when stored for a while.
We now advise people to leave their fuel tanks empty when the boat is not in use over winter and upon return, drain off any water build-up, treat the remaining fuel and then add fresh. If using a fuel treatment, given we know chemicals start to breakdown within six months and we believe this is one of the contributing factors, use it within six to 12 months of purchase.
A strong smell of turps signals you may have a sticky fuel problem. If you think this is the case, overhaul the injectors and/or pump, empty the tank and refill with fresh fuel.
Bolts and terminals
Lichfield Branch
Check bolts on couplings, engine mounts (only adjust the bottom bolt) and prop shaft are tight, and clean off any corrosion on battery terminals. Check the fan belt for tightness and wear (cracks and fraying are a sure sign it needs relacing) and gearbox oil levels.
A traditional stern gland should leak, but if it’s leaking too much, it probably needs adjusting and greasing. If this does not resolve it, it needs repacking.
Cooling system
Run your engine up to ‘running’ temperature (if there’s a gauge) or for approximately half an hour. Check the cooling system for leaks or escaping steam and if something is found, ensure jubilee clips are tight. If a split pipe is evident call out a qualified engineer. Finally put the engine into gear and check the control leaver operation, it should move freely with no tightness or ‘grabbing’, grease the ends, check for fraying, and replace if required.
Bilges and pumps
Remove all waste from the bilges and clean them. This helps you spot any developing leaks or issues throughout the coming season and reduces the risk of contaminants being pumped into our waterways.
A bilge pump is a must – it keeps your vessel safe, so it’s important to have the right type of bilge pump and install it correctly.
A maintenance pump manages small levels of water ingress consistently so requires replacing after a few years. Position it in an area where water ingress is likely, such as near the stern gland or directly under deck boards.
An emergency pump acts as an early-warning system, so it has to be automatic (responding without prompting) and positioned in an area at risk of serious ingress, and two-three inches higher than the maintenance pump. By making the outlet point as visible as possible, water pumped overboard will alert you to a serious issue. Ideally vessels should have both pumps. Also install a Bilgeaway filter- it uses a non-toxic solution to extract petrol, diesel, engine oil etc from water and renders them nonreactive, leaving environmentally-friendly contents in a cartridge which can be disposed of and the housing re-used.
Deck clearance
Clear deck drains of any leaves and debris – it will reduce the amount of water that enters the bilge and prevent rust occurring within the gunnels.
Lichfield Branch
Planning Matters
This report summarises the more notable of about 35 planning matters dealt with between mid-January and mid-April 2026.
By the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal, in Stafford, on green field land south of Radford Bank, an application in 2014 to build 80 houses was refused, partly due to visual impact on the Staffs. & Worcs. Canal Conservation Area. A new Outline application for 61 houses is smaller, set further back from the canal, and behind woodland which has grown since then, but some concerns remain and if consented it should be conditional on additional woodland planting between the development and the canal.
In Penkridge, a green field site between the canal and Boscomoor Lane, currently in the Green Belt, is allocated for housing in the Local Plan, but this has not yet been adopted. An Outline application has an Illustrative Layout Plan which is generally acceptable but includes a group of houses with gable ends right against the canal boundary. This is contrary to a ‘key requirement’ of the Local Plan for setbacks to limit visibility from the towpath and would have an adverse visual impact on the Staffs. & Worcs. Canal Conservation Area.
At Coven Heath, south of Brinsford Bridge, the established gypsy/traveller site has applied for retrospective permission for 8 more pitches on the southern part of the site. Previous applications for this area were refused in 2010, 2015, 2016, and 2017 due to being in the Green Belt and visual impact on the Staffs. & Worcs. Canal Conservation Area. Additional landscaping to the canal bank has been promised as for numerous previous applications but never delivered, and no plans of it are provided.
Affecting both the Staffs. & Worcs. Canal and the Trent & Mersey Canal on the field opposite their junction at Great Haywood, a proposed “60 day temporary recreational camp site” would have operated at weekends between Easter and the end of August. Although the Prior Notification was for the siting of tents, which is acceptable, given the sensitive heritage setting of the site and poor ground conditions we asked that it be conditional on no caravans, camper vans, motorhomes or other vehicles being allowed. It was subsequently refused due to flood risk, wildlife and heritage impacts.
Great Haywood Junction
Lichfield Branch
Near the Trent & Mersey Canal on Armitage Road in Rugeley, a pre-application consultation proposes to replace Gregory Works by a care home. This is across the road from the canal and although closer to the canal the care home would be of better appearance than the existing shed.
At Fradley Junction, both the planning application and Listed Building Consent application for Junction House that we objected to have been withdrawn. It remains to be seen what enforcement action if any the Council may take against the unauthorised work.
Affecting the Coventry Canal, as well as the North Oxford and Grand Union canals, the proposed Grand Union Canal Transfer project has continued to occupy a lot of my time working with Graham Heald, IWA Water Lead, on drafting IWA’s response to the Phase 2 Public Consultation. We attended a meeting at Milton Keynes with CRT and Affinity Water in March to discuss IWA’s concerns, and our response has now been submitted. We remain troubled by the lack of detailed engineering and geotechnical information, and by the extent of bank raising being proposed which has structural stability and safety risks, heritage impacts and requires navigation stoppages, and that the alternative of deeper dredging has not been properly considered.
Alongside the Ashby Canal at Hinckley Wharf, Hinckley Sea Cadets have applied for a proposed extension of their boat store and a separate shower block. The buildings will have brick and timber clad elevations towards the canal and the Wharf arm which, although rather plain, are of acceptable design with minimal impact on the Ashby Canal Conservation Area.
On HS2, as part of a Northern Growth Strategy, the government announced in January their long-term plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) that also include some parts of the previously cancelled HS2 routes. The first phase is electrification and upgrades to routes around Leeds. The second phase, with construction in the 2030s, is a new route between Liverpool and Manchester via Warrington which would use part of the previously cancelled HS2 Phase 2B route between Manchester Piccadilly and south of Manchester Airport. Work “has resumed” on this by adapting the High Speed Rail (Crewe-Manchester) Bill which has been paused in Parliament since 2024.
The third phase of this strategy is an “intention to ultimately deliver a full North-South new line between Birmingham and Manchester”, although “the government is yet to determine exactly what will be delivered and to what specification”. With the priorities being HS2 Phase 1 and then NPR, this implies “delivery in the 2040s at the earliest”.
Whilst the accompanying press releases claim that this “won’t be a revival of HS2 Phase 2”, the already authorised Phase 2A from Fradley to Crewe is the obvious route, about half of the land has already been purchased and the strategy says “existing
Lichfield Branch
land holdings between the West Midlands and Crewe will be retained”. However, the compulsory purchase powers were allowed to run out in February, and the planning safeguarding was removed two years ago. This leaves a lot of people in limbo, not knowing if the land will eventually be sold off or the rest later acquired for a ‘not HS2’ railway to Crewe on the same route but to a lower specification, as advocated by the Manchester and Liverpool mayors.
This creates further uncertainty about the Phase 1 works north of Coleshill to Fradley and Handsacre, which, except for work underway on the A38 and A5 crossings, were recently ‘paused’ for another four years. Without at least a bypass of the ColwichShugborough two-track bottleneck on the existing West Coast Mainline, or the full Phase 2A route to Crewe, there is no possibility of running more than a skeleton HS2 service north of Birmingham so there would be little purpose in proceeding with the remaining works north of Coleshill or the disproportionally costly Handsacre Link. This section may therefore be left in limbo until the 2040s, or never completed. This would remove any impacts on the Trent & Mersey Canal above Fradley Junction, and any further impacts on the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal at Curdworth, but the Lichfield Canal restoration at Cappers Lane may be blighted long term. LHCRT have asked about getting access to restore Lock 30 and the short section of existing channel to Cappers Lane Bridge on the land that HS2 compulsorily purchased but are now doing nothing with, but at present they are saying that no decisions will be taken before 2030.
A recent report in the i-paper expressed surprise that HS2 would now end “in a field”, just north of the Trent & Mersey Canal at Fradley Junction. In fact for some unaccountable reason that has been the plan for Phase 1 since 2013. Phase 2a would have continued it from there to Crewe and was authorised but then cancelled.
In her six-monthly report to Parliament in March the Transport Secretary said that the speed of HS2 could be reduced to save money. This will now be part of the ‘reset’, which the Government has said will provide a reliable delivery timetable and final cost estimate for what remains of HS2, and which 18 months ago was promised by the end of last year, but is not now expected before the summer. This is probably because of resistance from the contractors to renegotiating their lucrative ‘cost-plus’ construction contracts.
Most affected is BBV at the northern end of Phase 1 where the works north of the delta junction at Coleshill near Birmingham are mostly on a 4 year ‘pause’ following a previous 2 year delay. Only works previously started are proceeding, mainly the A38 crossings at Lichfield, but at a snail’s pace to limit expenditure and causing prolonged traffic disruption in the area.
Phil Sharpe, Planning Officer& HS2 Lead
Lichfield Branch
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Lichfield Branch
Editorial Notice
Lichfield Lines is the newsletter of IWA Lichfield Branch, it is produced 4 times a year to keep members informed about our forthcoming public meetings, walks, work parties and other activities, to provide reports on recent meetings and events, and to include articles of general interest to our members.
The editor, Peter Gurney, welcomes articles, letters or photographs of waterway activities in our Branch area which can be emailed to pete.gurney@waterways.org.uk (Please note there is a 35MB limit for emails with attachments sent via this address). The copy date for the next newsletter will be 15th July 2026, for publication in August.
Advertising
Lichfield Lines is posted or emailed to about 280 Branch members. It can also be read and downloaded by anyone from the Branch website pages. If you would like to publicise your waterway related business to our members, and others that read the newsletter online, we can offer advertising space at the following rates:
Full Page - £20 inc VAT per issue
Half Page - £10 inc VAT per issue
Please contact the editor to discuss artwork and layout. By advertising you will help to sponsor IWA's charitable activities and reach potential customers who are all committed to the waterways.
The IWA has a range of corporate members some of whom offer discounts to members. The discount details can be found on the IWA website at https://waterways.org.uk/benefits
Corporate members in our area are
Lichfield Cruising Club 2000 Ltd
Stafford Boat Club Ltd
Longwood Boat Club
Ashby Canal Association
Truman Enterprise Narrowboat Trust Tamworth Cruising Club
Ashby Canal Trust
Lichfield & Hatherton Canals
Restoration Trust
Canal Transport Services Ltd
River Canal Rescue Ltd
Ash Tree Boat Club
Countywide Cruisers (Brewood) Ltd
Elite Furnishings
Waterways World Ltd
Birmingham & Midland Marine Services
Midland Chandlers Hargreaves Narrowboat Trust
Norton Canes Boat Services Ltd
Lakeland Leisure Estates Ltd
Stafford Riverway Link
Please mention the IWA when contacting any of these Corporate Members.
Your Committee
Chairman
Tel: 07808 846434
Lichfield Branch
Email: neil.barnett@waterways.org.uk
Treasurer
Tel: 01785 255101
Email: sue.gurney@waterways.org.uk
Secretary & Planning Officer
Tel: 01889 583330
Email: phil.sharpe@waterways.org.uk
Volunteer Coordinator & Navigation
Tel: 07808 846434
Email: neil.barnett@waterways.org.uk
Membership Officer
Tel: 01283 713125
Email: adrianwedgwood1941@gmail.com
Member
Tel: 07847 470112
Email: derek.beardsmore@waterways.org.uk
Branch Sales
Tel: 01543 491161
Email: helen.whitehouse@waterways.org.uk
Neil Barnett
Sue Gurney
Phil Sharpe
Neil Barnett
Adrian Wedgwood
Derek Beardsmore
Helen Whitehouse
Social Secretary Position vacant
Non-Committee Posts
Newsletter and Website Editor
Tel: 01785 255101
Email: pete.gurney@waterways.org.uk
Walks Coordinator
Email: clive.walker@waterways.org.uk
Social Media Editor
Email: Richard.curtis@waterways.org.uk
Branch Contact Address
Email: lichfield@waterways.org.uk
Pete Gurney
Clive Walker
Richard Curtis
Lichfield Branch
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