As one of the Parishes that the Basingstoke Canal passes through, Odiham Parish Council continues to make an annual contribution to upkeep. Many other councils however do not. One of the areas of concern within the Parish is Swan Cutting. We have received the following update from the Canal Authority on the status and future of this stretch of the canal:-
“Basingstoke Canal – Update on Swan Cutting and Canal Bank Stability
I’m writing to share an update on the ongoing investigations and proposed works regarding the geological
conditions at “Swan Cutting”, west of Swan Bridge, North Warnborough and their implications for the canal
channel.
The County Council’s foremost priority is ensuring the safety of our neighbours and the public who enjoy the
canal. Over the past decade, we’ve undertaken extensive ground investigations and developed a robust
engineering design for a scheme to stabilise the southern canal bank. More recently, we engaged a contractor
at the Early Contractor Involvement stage to refine the methodology and costings for the proposed scheme.
Following a detailed engineering risk review, we’re pleased to report that the likelihood of a landslip significantly
affecting the canal channel is now considered much lower than previously assessed. This is reassuring news
for local residents and landowners and reflects the value of the proactive work carried out to date.
That said, some gradual movement of the canal bank and land above this is expected to continue, which will
reduce the channel width over time. While this is unlikely to impact narrowboats or small craft for many years,
it may affect wider vessels within the next few years.
Given the risk review indicating a reduced risk and a revised cost estimate of £2.14m, we are not currently in a
position to prioritise delivery of a scheme at present. However, we remain committed to monitoring the site
closely. Our engineers and canal rangers will continue regular inspections, and we now have a fully developed
scheme ready to implement should conditions change.
We’re also working with neighbouring landowners to explore drainage improvements that could help reduce
ground movement in their land. These collaborative efforts are an important part of our ongoing stewardship of
the canal.”
