Canal Watch

Inspired by Derbyshire constabulary and supported by British Waterways and Safer South Derbyshire Partnership, Canal Watch aims to provide a means for boat owners to become even more directly involved in maintaining the safety and ambience of the local canal network.

The aim is to provide a fast and simple means for boaters to communicate their concerns to the right parties and to work together with those parties to improve their boating experience. It will also make it easier for other canal users, from walkers to canalside homeowners, to communicate their concerns.

To join Canal Watch, simply complete the registration form attached and return it in the envelope. It is completely free. Updates will be placed on our website canalwatch.org.uk

In return, you will be able to receive fast straightforward communication about problems happening in the area that could affect you. You will also be able to quickly inform interested parties of problems that you are currently experiencing anticipate occurring or warn others of a problem such as vandalism, stone-throwing, theft and navigation problems through our web based blog.

Canal Watch is an amalgamation of partners; Derbyshire Police, Safer South Derbyshire Partnership, South Derbyshire District Council and British Waterways. Canal Watch is primarily a web-site based application for canal boat owners moored along the 17 miles of canal system within the South Derbyshire area and moorers within Mercia Marina, Shardlow Marina and Stenson lock. This pack provides information on how to apply to become a member of Canal Watch, useful contacts, and how to report matters arising with regards to the safe operation of the canal system, and provide a safer community within the boating world. Canal Watch operates on a similar system to Neighbourhood Watch schemes operating around the country. Members will have stickers to place on their windows to show that they are an active member.

Members are encouraged to report matters of crime against boats and acts of criminal damage along the canal system as well as problems arising with the canal or towpath. These reports will then be channelled to the appropriate authority with responsibility for further action. Members will also be eligible to join the “Community messaging service” making them aware of problems within the area direct from Derbyshire Police.