The Cotswold Canals Connected partnership is inviting people to take part in a new survey about the district’s historic canals – whether they use them regularly, occasionally, or not at all.
The survey, which runs throughout August, follows a similar one conducted in 2023, which helped benchmark how people use and feel about the canals. This year’s follow-up aims to understand how those views and behaviours may have changed over time.
The survey focuses on the two linked Cotswold canals:
– The Stroudwater Canal (from Saul Junction to Wallbridge in Stroud)
– The Thames and Severn Canal (from Wallbridge to Brimscombe)
Please note: the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal is not included in this research.
Everyone aged 18 or over is encouraged to take part – whether or not they completed the original survey, and whether or not they use the canal. However, canal partners are particularly keen to hear again from those who took part in 2023 to help build a clearer picture of changes over time.
The survey takes around six minutes to complete and is being conducted by Heritage Pathfinder Ltd. All responses will be reported anonymously.
Council Leader Cllr Chloe Turner said: “The canal is a much-loved amenity and regularly used by thousands of people, but we are also keen to hear from those who visit rarely or have never been.
“This follow-up survey is a valuable opportunity to understand how attitudes and usage may have changed, and to help shape the future of our waterways.”
The survey ends on 31 August.
To take part visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CotswoldCanals2025
