Antisocial Behaviour on Canals and Rivers Bath 2026-01-21

Opened the debate

Our waterways in Bath are the envy of the country. Across England and Wales, more than 30,000 boats are licensed to navigate our canals and rivers, and Bath stands out as a particular hotspot... In recent years, residents along the Kennet and Avon canal have experienced persistent and at times dangerous antisocial behaviour on the part of a small minority of individuals. Our canals are residential areas, but all too often families and individuals have been subjected to loud music late into the night, bonfires, and acts of vandalism that make it impossible for them to enjoy their homes in peace.

Government Response

I thank the hon. Member for Bath for raising this important issue. The Government are committed to tackling antisocial behaviour on canals and rivers through measures in the Crime and Policing Bill, including a new respect order to ban adult offenders from specified activities and increasing maximum fixed penalty fines. The Canal & River Trust is aware of local concerns and has policies governing unacceptable behaviour. I propose regular meetings between local authorities, police, and the CRT to improve accountability. We support the trust's efforts to develop an antisocial behaviour action plan and are reviewing its recommendations for better enforcement powers and legislation consolidation. Our engagement with the trust includes quarterly formal meetings to identify quick solutions. The Government have agreed to provide the trust with a further 10-year grant of £401 million from April 2027. That will continue to support the trust’s canal infrastructure maintenance, helping to keep the waterways safe and navigable. In closing, I thank all hon. Members for contributing to the debate, and I agree that we must take action to tackle antisocial behaviour, in all its forms, on the canals and towpaths. People deserve to enjoy these blue walkways and amazing places. Who would have believed that it is possible to see a kingfisher on Coventry canal right next to the old Cash’s silkworks, one mile from the heart of Coventry city centre? It was a sight I never thought I would see—my first ever kingfisher. People deserve to live free from nuisance, intimidation and damage to their property and to feel safe in the place they call home. Dignity and respect are not optional extras but the foundations of strong, decent communities that have pride in where they live. We will keep working until every neighbourhood feels safe, including those on the canals in Bath and across the country. The Canal & River Trust is playing its part by working closely with local authorities, police and other agencies to tackle antisocial behaviour on the waterways. It is also working to strengthen and streamline its licensing powers to ensure fairness for all users. We will continue to support this work through grant funding, assisting with any legislative changes that may be necessary.