Grand Union Canal Transfer calls for community input

(by Karma Loveday)

Affinity Water and its partners will begin the phase two public consultation on the Grand Union Canal Transfer (GUCT) scheme on Wednesday (11 February).

Running until 2 April, the consultation will focus on giving communities along the scheme’s proposed route the opportunity to contribute their thoughts and opinions. The consultation includes 12 public meetings to be held at venues along the route through March.

Natasha Coackley, head of strategic resource options for Affinity Water, said: “Engaging with the communities, residents and businesses that will be impacted by the scheme enables us to build a scheme that works for everyone. From identifying opportunities to embed social value in locations along the route, to partnering with local businesses, there are an abundance of opportunities for us to work collaboratively.”

The project will transfer highly-treated recycled water from the Midlands to the Southeast using existing canal infrastructure, with the capacity to deliver up to 115 million litres per day to Affinity Water’s customers. This will help secure abstraction reductions and water supplies, as well as helping to secure the future of the canals forming part of the route.

The first phase one public consultation ran in October 2024. The GUCT is expected to be operational by 2033.