HERIAN News

”SANDWICH' LINING WILL HELP TO FUTURE PROOF NEW CANAL BED
BW is deploying the latest engineering techniques in re-lining the canal bed and ensur­ing the waterway will continue to play a lead role in the growing lei­sure and tourism fu­ture of the region. The relining process is like creating an elaborate sandwich. First,a layer of mem­brane is laid on the canal bed. Next,this is covered with a water­proofing material be­fore a second layer of membrane. The final stage in the operation will see the triple decker covered with concrete ready for re-watering.

Project Engineer Mark Durham says the use of a multi layered lining provides the canal with additional security, helping to future proof the waterway structure. And the waterway in­frastructure is being further protected with the installation of a new back feeder pipe. This will prevent ex­cess groundwater un­dermining into the ca­nal infrastructure œ something which is be­lieved to have been a contributory factor in causing October's breach.

GREEN CHAMPIONS SOUGHT TO SHAPE FUTURE OF WATERWAY
Material excavated from the canal bed is being reused by engi­neers in the relining process as part of the commitment to main­tain the highest envi­ronmental standards in the waterway's repair. And British Waterways General Manager Julie Sharman says the or­ganisation is looking to communities to play an active role in shaping the waterway corridor as the project pro­gresses and a new visitor season ap­proaches.

"The Monmouthshire & Brecon is an important habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna and we are look­ing for local green champions who will get involved in managing its future" said Mrs Sharman

MOVERS AND SHAKERS MAKE THEIR MARK
British Waterways has strengthened its South Wales team with the arrival of David Morgan, Devel­opment Manager. David has joined the organisation from Sustrans and has ex­tensive experience in building the kind of funding partnerships that will hallmark the continuing growth of the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal.

David will work closely with external partners to create funding and com­mercial opportunities that will continue with the integrated develop­ment of the waterway as a key driver for the re­gional economy. Meanwhile, South Wales team engineer Andy Goss is heading for deeper waters on the voyage of a lifetime.

Andy and his brother Pete are sailing to Aus­tralia in a replica 37 foot wooden lugger, recreating the daring feat undertaken by a crew of seven Cornish­men 150years ago. Andy says he read of this incredible feat and the idea of replicating this achievement proved irresistible.