The UK's canal system was mostly built more than 200 years ago. In that time (the Industrial Revolution), manufacturers decided canal transport was the best means of moving both materials and products around the country. Rail and road systems developed later and eventually took on this transport role (as well as moving people). In more recent times, canals and their towpaths have been increasingly used for leisure (e.g. boating, angling and walking) in many parts of England and Wales. The Canal and River Trust Charity has now focused on the growing environmental utilities of canals. It points out they help protect biodiversity, facilitate water security and even keep cities cooler in the summer (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jan/07/canals-uk-climate-resilience-biodiversity). Global heating and consequent climate change, means that the UK's canal system will be increasingly important. Canals act like biodiversity corridors, connecting habitats, for fish, freshwater invertebrates, some birds and otters. Water can also be taken from them in times of drought. The cooling effect of water evaporation also protects city folk from damaging excessive heat. If anything, the canal system, should, where appropriate, be extended.
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