Towpath Telegraph September 2020

September 2020

TOWPATH TELEGRAPH Journal of the Inland Waterways Association’s Milton Keynes Branch

Laura Summerbell moves on Work parties back at Fenny Lock News from B-MKWT, BCS and WAT "Pop-up" museum at Stoke Bruerne A mid-August view of the Wyvern base at Linslade, with only two hire boats at the moorings (and a correspondingly full car park).

With continual changes to rules on quarantine for holidaymakers returning from abroad, and the easing of the regulations affecting the boat hire trade, "staycations" on the waterways are now clearly popular! Photo: Sheila Franklin.

Registered Office: Island House, Moor Road, Chesham, HP5 1WA Tel: 01494 783453 Web: www.waterways.org.uk A non-profit distributing company limited by guarantee.

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Welcome to September 2020 Towpath Telegraph As this edition is being prepared, we are enjoying a mini-heatwave, and somewhat more freedom than at the height of the Covid-19 lockdown. That’s good news for hire boat operators and other canalside businesses. Let’s hope that the easing of restrictions can continue. As our printing firm is now operating again, we expect to be able to produce a printed edition this time. Enjoy!

Chairman’s Column GDPR and new members CRT eases restrictions, except in lockdown areas “Pop-up” museum at Stoke Bruerne W0rk parties return to Fenny Lock after six months Laura Summerbell moves on Diary Work parties resume on the Buckingham Arm Other BCS news Parliamentary Group hears about restoration schemes Wendover Arm Trust prepares to resume work parties B-MK Waterway Trust news The Editor’s Page IWA Raffle E-scooters on towpaths Sarah O’Grady joins IWA as Chief Executive Getting in touch with MK Branch

2-3 3 4 5 6-7 7 8-9 10 10 11 12 12 - 13 14 14 15 15 16

Chairman’s Column

In my previous column I wrote about the prospect of lockdown being eased and the possibility we might actually be allowed to use our boats. Well, this has come to pass: metaphorical toes were dipped into canal water, twice recently (July).

Dip one was a day-trip on our little ship Goldie, from Lionhearts Cruising Club, Great Linford, to Cosgrove, a two hour trip each way just for lunch and back, because at that time we could not stay overnight on the boat. We were accompanied by two fellow club member boats, and social distancing rules were observed over lunch. It was good to be able to socialise again in person rather than via the telephone or the now ubiquitous Zoom.

We were blessed by warm weather, sunny with some cloud. There was not a lot of traffic and the canal appeared in good shape, no rubbish picked up on props and towpaths surprisingly litter-free. During the lockdown we were concerned that with local authority rubbish tips being closed our canal could become a substitute, but thankfully that has not come to pass. Result!

Dip two was somewhat different. Further easing of lockdown meant that overnight stays were allowed, and hire-boat fleets could start operating. I received a telephone call from James Griffin of Wyvern Shipping, asking if I could move a boat from his yard at Linslade to Braunston for some steel-work to be done. Not having much else on the calendar, Pat and I jumped at the chance.

Our first scheduled stop was Fenny Stratford. Again we were pleasantly surprised at the condition of the canal and towpath, with plenty of water and little rubbish. Even better, at Three Locks, a volunteer lock keeper was on duty. We hooked up with a lock-buddy, and it seemed like normality had returned. The downside was an almost unbroken line of moored boats between Leighton and Fenny—where had they all come from? Cruising was at tick-over for at least 75% of the time; a three hour trip became four hours. If this was par for the course all the way to Braunston this was going to be a long trip!

Many thanks to Rodney and Wendy Evans for allowing us to leave the boat on their moorPage 2

Chairman’s Column—continued. ing for the first night so we could return home to complete some business. Off we set at 9am next morning, and we treated the trip from Fenny to Cosgrove as an "inspection’ of our patch". Again we were pleased to find the canal in good order as, generally, was the towpath. Again, less pleasing was the number of moored boats, tick-over was the norm.

Cosgrove is always pleasant, and we were able to renew some acquaintances as we passed through. The cruise to Stoke Bruerne bottom lock was uneventful, plenty of water and no rubbish. Fewer moored boats allowed faster cruising, and luckily once more we hooked up with a lock-buddy and the locks were traversed in quick time, through Blisworth tunnel and a night spent in Blisworth village, a good supper and a bottle of Red. Our final day saw us away by 7:20am. Before us lay a long cruising pound, the Buckby 7, Braunston tunnel and the Braunston 6. We made Buckby in our usual time and again were lucky to hook up with lockbuddies who turned out to be none other than Keith and Carole Alderton, chair and newsletter editor of IWA-Great Ouse With the Wyvern boat at Stoke Bruerne top lock. Photo: Pat Durham.

Branch. It's a small world, folks!

Up the flight we went in double-quick time and soon into Braunston tunnel which, from the sound emerging from it, resembled a waterway version of bumper cars. You might know that this tunnel has a kink in it, and care needs to be taken to avoid banging and clattering.

As we gingerly entered the tunnel, the banging and clattering sound became louder, much more than usual, and we wondered what was going on in there. The culprit seemed to be a couple of boats ahead of us. Steerers of oncoming boats seemed thankful to be past them and advised us to stay well back, which we had every intention of doing.

Braunston flight, often short of water, was fine with plenty of water. By the time we arrived, traffic in front had cleared. Again as if by magic a lock-buddy appeared and we enjoyed an uneventful descent. A boat-yard pontoon, empty and ready to receive the boat, was a welcome sight. We tied up pretty much at 5pm on the dot, packed our things, cleaned the boat and awaited the arrival of our transport home.

Our first long “lockdown trip” showed that our canal is still in great shape and needs to be cruised. Although social distancing is still a necessity, it need not prevent us from enjoying our (these days expensive) boating. We are social creatures and need social intercourse, so for your physical and mental well-being - go cruising!

Chris Durham, Branch Chair.

GDPR and new members Under the GDPR legislation (May 2018), we no longer publish the names or localities of IWA members who have recently joined the Branch unless they have given consent. All new members should receive a welcome contact from our Membership Secretary Pete Bickers. We very much hope to see you at our Branch meetings and other activities—whether in person or online. Please introduce yourselves to one of our Committee members (those wearing IWA badges).

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CRT eases restrictions, except in lockdown areas

CRT banner now at Bridge 114, Linslade.

Photo: Sheila Franklin.

Canal & River Trust has been able to ease some restrictions that were imposed at the height of the nationwide lockdown. Navigations are open for boating, angling and paddle sports, and you can enjoy exercise and being close to nature, on the towpaths.

Defra advises that the risk of the coronavirus being passed on to others from people using public rights of way and other paths and trails is considered to be very low as long as people follow the Government’s instructions to maintain social distancing.

Boaters are currently allowed to stay overnight on their boats and take extended cruises.

Social distancing guidance should continue to be maintained across the Trust’s waterway network. Holiday hire boat companies are freely operating, taking precautions around safe practice, such as extra cleaning.

However, where the Government has introduced local lockdowns, CRT has reinstated lockdown restrictions for boating. In Greater Manchester, east Lancashire and parts of West Yorkshire, separate households cannot meet each other at home after a spike in Covid-19 cases. This also extends to boats. So, while the waterways remain open, only members of a single household or support bubble should be aboard a boat at any time. In Leicester, pubs, cafes and restaurants have been permitted to re-open. The waterway through Leicester is re-opening for boating. The single household guidance applies, with only members of a single household or support bubble aboard at any time.

CRT plans to maintain essential boating facilities. Please follow Government advice and wash your hands after using the facilities.

Angling, kayaking and canoeing are permitted, provided you are alone or with single household members or social bubble. Rules around social distancing and limits on gatherings should be followed at all times.

The Trust is keeping the situation under active review and will update boat licence holders in line with changing circumstances and Government guidance.

Waterway-based events are being assessed on a case-by-case basis, and event organisers are required to incorporate Covid-19 risk mitigation into their risk assessments. The Trust has placed recruitment on hold for many of its own volunteer events, including Towpath Taskforce work parties. Many volunteer lock-keepers have resumed work, however, as social distancing is relatively easy to achieve.

The above was believed to be correct as at mid-August, but for latest info, please visit: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/safety-on-our-waterways/coronavirus Page 4

“Pop-up” Museum at Stoke Bruerne The Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne re-opened partially from 1 August until 27 September. Only the café area will be open, with a one-way system in and out.

The retail/museum side will remain closed for now. Opening hours are Friday/ Saturday/Sunday, 11am - 3pm (and Bank Holiday Monday). Refreshments will be pre-packed cakes/snacks only, hot and cold drinks and ice creams.

Panoramic view of Stoke Bruerne, from an old print.

Until things can get back to normal, the Friends of the Canal Museum will be operating a "Pop-up" Museum in the open air on the green by the Museum, to coincide with café opening hours. This is likely to take the form of a volunteer holding an object (the public cannot be allowed to touch artefacts at the moment) and challenging visitors to guess what it is and what it was used for – a great way to engage the public with the collection. On busy days, volunteers may also be needed to help manage queues outside, and also to welcome and chat to visitors while they wait.

Measures will be in place to ensure the safety of everyone concerned, as well as to guarantee compliance with Government requirements and Covid-19 regulations. All interested volunteers will receive full information which will include an outline of the process, protocols and training required before volunteering on-site. You will also be given training so you know everything there is to know about the objects you will be sharing.

If you have time to spare on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays over the coming weeks and would be interested in joining a “Reveal the Object” team, please contact Louise at the Museum on 01604 862229, or via volunteers@friendsofcanalmuseum.org.uk or contact .

More info on the Museum at: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/places-to-visit/stoke-bruerne

Excellent Boats on a Beautiful Canal Our base at Linslade is within weekend reach of the Waterways Museum at Stoke Bruerne, or the Chiltern Hills and Aylesbury. Choice of exciting one- or two-week cruises including the Thames. 35 luxury boats, 2 to 8 berth.

Boat Builders - Repairs - Dry dock - Blacking - Repaints Waterside holiday cottage

The WYVERN SHIPPING Co Ltd

Rothschild Road, Linslade, Leighton Buzzard, Beds, LU7 2TF Tel: 01525 372355 Fax: 01525 852308 http://www.canalholidays.co.uk james@canalholidays.co.uk Members of IWA, APCO, BMF, B&MK Waterway Trust, Wendover Arm Trust, Buckingham Canal Society, Aylesbury Canal Society

d s an e k a e r t br kly hi r o e Sh we Page 5

Work parties return to Fenny Lock after six months Our last Adoption Scheme work party before the lockdown was on 28 January, some 6 months ago, and what a lot of water has gone under the bridge (or through the lock) since then. After ploughing through Government, Canal & River Trust and IWA Covid-19 guidelines and risk assessments for the safe return of our volunteers, we returned to Fenny Lock for work parties on 21 and 28 July.

On 21 July, our first job was to present Karen Foster (landlady of the Red Lion pub) with some flowers to say a big thank you for looking after the pump-house garden during the lock-down. She kept the weeds at bay and watered the beds during the hot spells in our absence.

Our very small team set to, clearing weeds from the block paving and around the lock, and some litter picking and gardening on the Pump-house side of the canal. The garden plants have become somewhat overgrown - it must have been all the new compost and top soil we added to the flower beds last year, plus the waterretaining crystals which certainly helped. So come the Autumn we will have to do Branch Chairman Chris Durham presents flowers to some thinning out and re- Karen Foster (observing social distancing) while Andy Bambridge and Alan Smith look on. Photo: Pat Durham. positioning the taller plants.

On the subject of plants, if you have any spare bedding plants etc. that you would like to donate to the flower beds. either now or next year. I would gladly take them off your hands!

The Red Lion at Fenny Stratford

A friendly, warm and inviting canalside pub, offering a selection of great wines, speciality gins, beers and ales. There is a tasty lunchtime and evening menu, all very reasonably priced. Why not stop by for our amazing Sunday Roast, but remember to book so as not to be disappointed. Karen and her team will be sure to make your visit a pleasurable experience.

11 Lock View Lane, Fenny Stratford, MK1 1BY 01908 372317 http://www.the-red-lion-fenny-lock.co.uk karen@the-red-lion-fenny-lock.co.uk

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Fenny Lock work parties—continued.

At the 28 July work party, weeding was completed for the time being. At future work parties, painting will be started, weather permitting. Photos: Pat Durham.

There has been some damage to the paddle gear on the top lock gate nearest to the Red Lion, and the lock gates have taken a bit of a bashing in places. Also, the swing bridge retaining clip is broken, so don’t pull your boat through from the bridge; it could swing out and damage your boat! CRT are aware and hopefully by the time you read this article they will have fixed it.

Visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/iwamiltonkeynesbranch to keep an eye on our efforts. We are always on the lookout for new blood to help our small team with the gardening, weeding and litter picking, not forgetting painting the lock gates, the stone wall edge, seats etc. So if you fancy helping out, please contact me on 07510 195918 or pat.durham@waterways.org.uk I will then add you to my work party email list.

Pat Durham.

Laura Summerbell moves on After two years as Volunteer Leader at CRT London & South East, Laura Summerbell is leaving to become a Tree Inspector for Milton Keynes Council.

We wish Laura every success in her new role. Her efficient “can do” approach has been of great value to the Branch, especially in running the Clean-ups and the Fenny Lock Adoption Scheme.

She said: "You are a wonderful team of volunteers, and together you make a huge difference. I’m sure you will give my successor the same warm welcome you gave me and they will enjoy working with you as much as I have."

Photo: Tim Armstrong.

Page 7

Diary

With ever-changing Government Covid-19 guidelines, planning events ahead of time is proving difficult. IWA's current position (mid-August) is that indoor events such as Branch meetings should not be planned for before 1 October. Resuming these meetings will probably entail a risk assessment to be carried out under Government guidelines in consultation with the venue's staff. We have given web addresses for some events, but please note that the IWA's new web site is due to go live in the coming few weeks, so addresses given here may change.

IWA Milton Keynes Branch meetings and events Below is the excellent Grand Union programme for 2020Canal 21, as planned by David Fenny Tucker before the panStratford Dobbies demic, together with Garden A5 V10 directions to the Irish Centre Central MK Brickhill St Centre, and the provisional date for the AuV4 Watling St P tumn Clean-up. However, please take this list as entirely provisional, and please Irish Centre A5 Dunstable DO NOT turn up at Manor Fields the Irish Centre unWatling Street McDonald’s less we confirm that Fenny Stratford A4146 a meeting is to take MK2 2HX Leighton Buzzard place there. The early meetings of the season will probably take place via Zoom, if the speakers are able to give their talks in this way. We may have to alter the schedule as given. We will do our best to keep you informed of arrangements, by email or via posts on the Branch Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/iwamiltonkeynesbranch/ For details of how to join Zoom meetings and webinars “live”, or watch them later, please see Page 9.

Thursday 17 September Thursday 15 October 16-17 October

Video night, with David Tucker. Northern Waterways, and another film.

The Grand Junction & Grand Union Canals, with Roy Doggett.

Branch Canal Clean-up. This is in the Branch and CRT diaries, but it is currently uncertain as to whether it will go ahead, or what form it might take. More information will be circulated as soon as possible.

Thursday 19 November

The Suez Canal, with Roger Squires.

Thursday 17 December

Christmas social.

Thursday 21 January 2021 Thursday 18 February Thursday 18 March Thursday 15 April Page 8

The Panama Canal, with Richard Thomas.

Branch AGM (Agenda in January 2021 TPT), followed by an update on the Wendover Arm restoration by Clive Johnson.

The Canal du Midi, with Tim Armstrong.

Speaker to be announced.

Diary—continued Other events, either currently billed as going ahead, or known to have been cancelled, as indicated.

29 - 31 August 12-13 September

Saturday 26 September 11.30am

23 - 25 October

IWA Festival of Water, Worcester: now POSTPONED until 2021; see https://www.waterways.org.uk/events_festivals/festival_water/ Village at War Weekend, Stoke Bruerne: CANCELLED; see http://www.friendsofcanalmuseum.org.uk/home/4593803878 Stoke Bruerne Museum is partly open until 27 September; see Page 5.

61st IWA National Annual General Meeting. IWA’s 2020 AGM will be a virtual event held online via Zoom. To see the Agenda, register to join the meeting, and for details of a series of online talks leading up to the meeting, please go to: https://www.waterways.org.uk/agm/agm Wendover Arm Family Camp, Tring. Accommodation at Green Park in "Family Dormitories". Price: £15 per person. Expect to be involved in woodwork, planting and installing new site furniture. More info at: https://www.waterways.org.uk/wrg/canal_camps/family_volunteering/

IWA Webinars

IWA's popular (centrally organised) series of webinars continues, using the Zoom package, and Branches are organising their own Zoom meetings. As stated on Page 8, we hope to stage Zoom meetings for MK Branch, as Tim Armstrong is now equipped to set them up.

In the run-up to the National AGM (see above), IWA will present a series of webinars on topics celebrating 75 years of the IWA, entitled “IWA75”. The first of the series is: "A waterway revolution". In the midst of world changing events, 11 August 1945 was the quiet start of the waterways’ own revolution. Alarum Theatre's Kate Saffin tells the story of the first meeting between the Aickmans and the Rolts and the early days of the Inland Waterways Association. This webinar was presented “live” on 11 August, but unfortunately suffered from a poor internet connection. It will be re-recorded for IWA’s Youtube channel—see below. Later webinars in the series are yet to be announced.

Joining a webinar “live” is easy, using a desktop computer, tablet or smart phone. * Go to https://www.waterways.org.uk/events_festivals/online_talks The talks are listed in date order; each has a "Register now . . ." link. * Click the link for the talk you are interested in, fill in the online form that appears, and click the "Register" button. You can do this well in advance of the start time. * The ID number of the webinar and a very long web address then appear. It's best to save these into a Word document or text file so that they are available to you when you join the webinar. However you should also receive an email with a simple “Click here to join” link. * Just before the webinar is due to begin, either copy the saved web address into your browser to join in, or use the link in the email—this is easier! Depending on your device's capabilities, you may be able to type questions into a chat-box, or ask questions using your microphone if the speaker offers that option to participants. Some Zoom meetings allow you to participate using your device’s camera.

If you are unable to join a meeting “live”, you can see all previous webinars, and a selection of other video presentations, by going to IWA's Youtube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ROBJ6rpm_41BSmu-Glf2Q

Page 9

Work parties resume on the Buckingham Arm Because of the Coronavirus our work parties have been on lockdown. but we have just started up again with a small work party at Cosgrove. On Thursday 9 and Sunday 12 July, we also ran two work parties at our Bourton Meadow site, which had got very overgrown. With some new people joining us, we had a very good turnout of volunteers on both days. With our own volunteers this made totals of eleven people on Thursday and fourteen people on Sunday.

It is always very disappointing when you have worked hard on a site and go back to find it very overgrown and see how much work is needed to get it back to looking attractive again but, thanks to all the hard work of the volunteers on both days, the whole of the hedge along the towpath up to the lock keeper's cottage has been trimmed. The towpath has also been strimmed and a very large overgrown area as you enter the site has been completely cleared.

Our Sunday work parties will continue at Bourton Meadow, but most of the Thursday ones will be at Cosgrove, completing the work on the bridge.

The bridge work is coming along well.

Wooden railings have been replaced along each side of the bridge by metal railings which are much safer and look more attractive.

There is also a long dry stone wall by the bridge which needs plenty of attention and our volunteers are enjoying the experience of learning a new skill.

New permanent metal railings at Bridge One. Louise, our work boat working with Photo: BCS. CRT, has been helping volunteers on the Buckby flight of locks by carrying stone for the volunteers to lay on the towpath. Because Louise is a wide beam boat, this meant two trips through Blisworth tunnel - with the tunnel closed to other traffic - and a very early start for our volunteers. We will be repeating the towpath work at Cosgrove with our volunteers improving the towpath near the trip boat along the Grand Union Canal.

All IWA members would be very welcome to come and see the progress being made at Bridge One, Cosgrove, and at our other sites.

Athina Beckett.

Other BCS news The Society's Cosgrove Festival, which had been due to take place on 18-19 July, was cancelled due to practical difficulties with social distancing in both the Village Hall and along the towpath. The Society hopes to run the Festival in July 2021. It may be possible to run a smaller social event this October if circumstances allow, and this possibility is being kept under review.

Meanwhile, the Society’s trustees and project teams continue working in the background with electronic meetings etc, ensuring that the restoration work can continue.

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Parliamentary Group hears about restoration schemes A video meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the Waterways on 21 July discussed Waterway Restoration as a catalyst for regeneration and economic recovery. MPs and Lords were joined virtually by representatives from over 60 restoration groups, navigation authorities and other stakeholders.

The meeting heard presentations from Peter Buck of Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, John Dodwell of Montgomery Canal Partnership and Terry Cavender of Buckingham Canal Society. Common themes were the wider benefits of canal restoration, issues created by the Covid-19 pandemic including delays in making progress on the ground, and the positive partnerships with organisations that are assisting canal restoration.

Simon Harrow of OFWAT then talked about the Regulators’ Alliance for Progressing Infrastructure Development (RAPID) project, a cross-agency organisation set up to help deliver sustainability across the water industry. RAPID aims to develop regional and national water resource solutions, and has identified schemes to improve water transfer. Six of these options utilise rivers, canals and pipelines.

Terry Cavender, who addressed July’s virtual APPG meeting.

A Q&A session saw questions asked about some of the national issues that are holding restoration back. Mike Palmer, Chairman of Waterway Recovery Group and IWA Trustee, highlighted IWA’s vision for waterway restoration as a fully joined-up restorable network rather than as individual projects. A national project to restore hundreds of miles of towpaths and waterways would make a massive contribution to many of the issues that Government wishes to address as part of its post-Covid recovery plan. This includes more cycling and walking routes, investment in infrastructure and greater community engagement.

Paul Rodgers, IWA National Chairman, said that there was a key role for the APPG in raising Government awareness of the contribution that restoration schemes can bring, and the importance of raising standards and communications across a range of regulatory bodies.

The meeting closed with the Group Chair, Michael Fabricant MP, reaffirming the Group’s engagement with Government and confirming that he would invite a relevant Minister from DEFRA to a future meeting of the Group.

IWA Head Office Bulletin, July 2020.

Boat Safety Certification Alan Stewart

Lloyds Academy Diploma in Small Craft Surveying Ex-Merchant Marine Engineer

Authorised Boat Safety Scheme Examiner Visit my website: http://www.boat-safetyexaminer.co.uk Contact me by phone on 01234 767156 or mobile 07976 900113 Alternatively e-mail me at: alan_breck_stewart@msn.com Page 11

Wendover Arm Trust prepares to resume work parties Canal & River Trust has given permission for restoration work to re-commence on the Wendover Arm from 1 August. Risk assessments governing restoration work have to be revised in line with Covid-19 needs. An early task will be to assemble and equip a new welfare hut, which will provide safe toilet and washing facilities for volunteers. Vegetation clearance tasks will follow, and further tasks are being planned with social distancing to the fore.

Tasks involving two or more people, such as two-man lifts, straightforward in normal times, must now entail careful protection measures, or must be carries out in entirely different ways. A stock of PPE has been purchased for use at work parties.

Longer-term aims are to continue the restoration at Whitehouses, and complete the work at and around the old swingbridge near Bridge 4.

Although restoration work has been on hold, the Trust's Council is re-organising to reflect future needs, and has been updating its documentation and redeveloping its web site.

It is hoped that the WRG Family Camp will take place on 23-25 October. The Trust's AGM on 28 October will be held online.

The Trust has noted that use of the towpath has more than doubled over the past three Pleasant walking near Halton. Photo: Les Franklin. months. This should bode well when the Trust applies for funding to complete the restoration, as applications are rated in terms of public benefit, with “wellbeing� now carrying increased weight.

From Wendover Arm News, Summer Issue 2.

B-MK Waterway Trust news Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Trust's AGM on 30 June was held as a closed meeting.

Members voted by post. It is hoped that the annual Partnership Conference can be held as normal in November.

The John Bunyan boat has of course not been able to run, cutting off its income stream.

Work continues on making the case for the waterway's role in Income from the John Bunyan has been interrupted mitigating flood risk, and other as a result of the pandemic.. Photo: Les Franklin.

Page 12

B-MK Waterway Trust news—continued environmental benefits. This work is crucial, as a firm case can potentially unlock funding.

Fundraising for the Milton Keynes Community Boat continues, with £10,194 raised as giftaided donations and £19,700 as interest-free loans. The trust is bidding for £15,000 to cover equipment, training and set-up costs. The specification for the boat is now agreed, and construction can begin as soon as it is confirmed that funding is in place. Marketing for the Community Boat is being developed. Trip itineraries, pricing, online ticket sales and catering are all under development.

A long lease has been agreed with Bedford Borough Council for the landing stage at Kempston Mill, and the design is now substantially settled. It is hoped that Bedford Borough will waive design check fees, as the landing stage will eventually become their property. Final permission to build the stage is required from the Environment Agency.

From BMK News, June 2020.

White diesel for pleasure craft Private pleasure craft will no longer be entitled to use red diesel from April 2022.

HM Revenue & Customs published the outcome of its consultation into the use of red diesel on 9 July. It confirms the announcement made in the Spring Budget.

IWA wrote to HM Treasury earlier this year, welcoming Government's aim to reduce carbon emissions. We also highlighted concerns that removing access to red diesel could negatively affect the environment and the economy in the short term. We will continue to raise these issues as part of a new consultation that has now been launched by HM Treasury.

Private pleasure craft users are currently entitled to use red diesel for both propulsion and non-propulsion use, but they have to pay white diesel rates for the fuel used for propulsion.

The government says it will continue to work with craft users and fuel suppliers to understand how and when they will implement the changes, once they enter into force.

Private pleasure craft owners with a separate tank will remain entitled to use red diesel for non-propulsion uses: heating, lighting and for appliances powered via a battery charged using red diesel. For owners with only one fuel tank, the Treasury consultation proposes a new relief scheme. This would allow fuel suppliers to deduct the duty difference on the proportion of white diesel for non-propulsion use from the point-of-sale price. The fuel suppliers would then reclaim this deducted duty from HMRC. The consultation is calling for views on whether a split of 60% for propulsion and 40% for non-propulsion use reflects typical fuel use for most craft. HM Treasury and HMRC are continuing to liaise with IWA and other waterway organisations. We will be submitting a response to the HM Treasury consultation which closes on 1 October.

See the HMRC consultation on the government website: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/implementation-of-the-court-of-justice-of -the-european-union-cjeu-judgment-on-diesel-fuel-used-in-private-pleasure-craft And see the HM Treasury’s consultation into “Reforms to the tax treatment of red diesel and other rebated fuels”: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/consultation-on-reforms-to-the-taxtreatment-of-red-diesel-and-other-rebated-fuels

From IWA Bulletin, July 2020.

Page 13

The Editor’s Page

With the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, Sheila and I have enjoyed getting out for towpath walks. We have found our local stretch at Linslade to be in good order, but were disgusted to see a few masks left on the ground. This seems to us just about as anti-social as leaving dog excrement. Some people seem less careful about social distancing and can be reluctant to adopt single file, but we find that standing still and giving them a good steady eyeballing often does the trick!

I must admit to misgivings at the prospect of E-scooters being allowed on canal towpaths (see Page 15). The speed at which some cyclists come up behind us in near-silence, or with an ineffectual “ting” on a bell is bad enough. CRT is at the fact-finding stage, but I for one hope that they will stick to the status quo.

I am sorry that the Diary Page has to be hedged about with "ifs, buts and maybes", but you will understand the reasons why. As said on that page, please do not visit the Irish Centre unless we confirm that meetings are to take place there. We will do our best to keep you informed of all details for forthcoming events. If they have to be conducted via Zoom, we hope that as many of you as possible can join in, and we look forward to "virtually" seeing you! Stay safe!

Les Franklin, Editor.

IWA Raffle

Buy IWA raffle tickets and help raise funds for the Association’s Restoration Hub. Prizes include £1,000 cash, a Crick Boat Show bundle worth £250, Imray maps and publications worth £150, a full set of Nicholson Guides, a tug driving experience at London Canal Museum, and a goody-bag full of IWA-branded merchandise.

The IWA Restoration Hub is an essential part of our charity that helps waterway societies by providing expert advice from our honorary engineers and planners, health and safety guidance, environmental expertise, fundraising advice, and a dedicated helpline.

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Secure moorings · Car Parking · Paint Dock Slipway · Clubhouse · Work Parties Friendly · Cruises · Socials · Wi-Fi Beautiful Grounds and People!

Tickets are £2.00 each, with five tickets in the book (£10) Tickets will be entered into a one-off Prize Draw, which will take place on 16 December 2020.

We provide excellent facilities and moorings for boats up to 38 feet. In return we do expect strong participation by our members at work parties, in running the club and in social activity. No Residential Boats accepted.

Please note: You will not be sent any paper tickets, but will receive confirmation of your entry via email.

To find out more, including details of membership and fees, please visit our website at www.lionheartscruisingclub.co.uk

Buy your tickets at: https://www.waterways.org.uk/shop/ product_details?id=2218

CORONAVIRUS: The Club is closed during the emergency. Please submit any enquiries via the Contact page at the web address above.

Page 14

E-scooters on towpaths The increasing use of E-scooters has prompted Canal & River Trust to work with the Department of Transport, local authorities, national bodies and commercial operators to understand if (and how) E-Scooters can be used safely on towpaths.

E-Scooters are prohibited on towpaths under CRT’s General Canal Bye-Laws, just as any vehicles are which do not have permission. The Trust's Towpath Code, drawn up before Escooters were developed, does not mention them, so they are prohibited by default. CRT has given general permission for bicycles and vehicles used as mobility aids. CRT does give specific permission on an individual basis for operational vehicles (sit-on mowers, quad bikes etc), to complete vital operational and engineering works.

During the pandemic there has been a significant increase in local towpath use as people discovered them for travel, exercise and leisure. Although CRT has very little data, it is certain that more people are using E-Scooters on its land, despite their exclusion under the law. Towpaths are now used for many—sometimes competing—uses, so there are obvious safety concerns. There will be a great deal to understand before CRT makes any changes.

The Trust does not currently have funds for making such changes.

Until the Trust is satisfied that people will not be put at risk, it will not be permitting EScooters to be used, except in controlled trials.

CRT news release, July 2020.

Sarah O’Grady joins IWA as Chief Executive Sarah O'Grady has joined IWA as Chief Executive in succession to Neil Edwards, who retires from the role after over twenty years. Sarah O’Grady is an experienced leader, providing consultancy and interim support to boards and executive teams. She works with a wide range of charities, from large to volunteer-led, including museums. She was Chair of Amnesty International UK Section for three years, steering the membership organisation through a governance and constitutional reform programme. Her appointment is for six months, or until a permanent successor is in place.

Announcing the news, IWA National Chairman Paul Rodgers said: “At a time when IWA is active at national, regional and local levels across as diverse a range of issues as the sustainability of the waterways network, the pressures on restoration programmes, planning and heritage matters, and the environment, it is crucial to demonstrate strong leadership both within the Association and across the waterways as a whole.

“Sarah takes on the role at a very busy time. She is an authority on charity management and I know she will do a great job driving the organisation forward over the next few crucial months. This is our 75th year, and her experience will ensure we have the right building blocks in place as we look forward to another 75 years focused on the regeneration and protection of our nation’s waterways.”

An announcement on the permanent chief executive position will be made in due course.

IWA Bulletin, July 2020.

Page 15

Getting in touch with MK Branch The Committee is working to make sure that Branch activities continue in some form while the pandemic continues.

As always, they welcome your news, views and comments.

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Get the latest waterway news at these web sites. Addresses can change, but these were correct on 27 July 2020.

Chairman/Social CHRIS DURHAM Media/Data Holder: chris.durham@waterways.org.uk Vice-Chairman

VACANT

Secretary:

DIANE WITTS diane.witts@waterways.org.uk

Treasurer:

TIM ARMSTRONG tim.armstrong@waterways.org.uk

Membership:

PETE BICKERS pete.bickers@waterways.org.uk

Social Secretary:

DAVID TUCKER david.tucker@waterways.org.uk

Buckingham Canal ATHINA BECKETT Soc. Representative: athina.beckett@buckinghamcanal.org.uk B-MK Waterway Trust Reporter:

MARIE DRAPER marie.draper@waterways.org.uk

Trade Representative:

JAMES GRIFFIN james@canalholidays.co.uk

Fenny Lock Adoption Scheme / Volunteer Contact:

PAT DURHAM pat.durham@waterways.org.uk

Clean-up Supervisor:

VACANT

Education Officer:

VACANT

Editor and Publicity:

LES FRANKLIN (non-Committee) les.franklin@waterways.org.uk

Webmaster:

VERNON DRAPER (non-Committee) vernon.draper@waterways.org.uk

Planning:

TONY BIRCH (non-Committee) Contact via Les Franklin.

IWA homepage: https://www.waterways.org.uk MK Branch pages: https://www.waterways.org.uk/miltonkeynes/ MK Branch Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/iwamiltonkeynesbranch/ Canal and River Trust: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk Bedford-Milton Keynes Waterway Trust: http://www.b-mkwaterway.org.uk Buckingham Canal Society: https://www.buckinghamcanal.org.uk Wendover Arm Trust: http://www.wendoverarmtrust.co.uk Friends of the Canal Museum: http://www.friendsofcanalmuseum.org.uk Leighton Buzzard Canal Society: https://www.facebook.com/LeightonBuzzardCanalSociety/

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of The Inland Waterways Association or of the Milton Keynes Branch. They are however published as being of interest to members and readers.