The canal network in South Staffordshire is significant as both a local and regional recreation and leisure resource. The canals and their towpaths are valuable assets and have great potential for recreation, nature conservation, education and tourism. The built environment related to canals is architecturally and historically significant and the Staffordshire and Worcester Canal, the Stourbridge Canal and the Shropshire Union Canal all run through South Staffordshire. These canals are designated Conservation Areas.

 

The Council works with British Waterways and other agencies to safeguard and enhance the canal network in the district. Improvements to the canal environment will be encouraged to improve access to towpaths, links to the public footpath system and open spaces, the protection and creation of nature conservation areas and the conservation of canal structures and heritage features.

 

The Council supports the restoration of the Hatherton Branch Canal. The Lichfield and Hatherton Restoration Trust have proposals to restore the canal to navigable condition.

 

The Council has restored the disused Wyrley Bank Branch of the Sneyd section of the Wyrley Essington canal to a linear footpath with associated ponds and wet areas.