Since the Lancaster Canal Boaters Association was established in October 2025, the committee has been working hard behind the scenes to build strong foundations for the organisation’s future.
Much of this work has involved meetings, negotiations, planning and developing relationships with local organisations. This activity may not always be immediately visible, but it is essential if the LCBA is to become a sustainable and effective voice for boaters on the Lancaster Canal.
Bringing Boaters Together
The LCBA organised a successful social event, Curry on the Cut, providing free food and an opportunity for boaters to meet, talk and build connections with one another.
Creating a stronger and more supportive boating community remains at the heart of the association’s work.
Developing Winter Fuel Support
A pilot programme has been established for 2026 to provide winter fuel support for boaters experiencing fuel poverty.
Living aboard during the colder months can be particularly challenging, especially for those on low incomes or facing unexpected financial hardship. The pilot programme will help the LCBA understand where support is most needed and how a longer-term scheme could operate.
Protecting Boaters’ Services in Lancaster
The LCBA has entered into ongoing discussions with the Canal & River Trust regarding the provision, condition and future of boater facilities in Lancaster.
These services are essential to those living aboard, visiting the city or travelling along the Lancaster Canal. The association will continue to represent boaters’ concerns and press for facilities that are accessible, reliable and properly maintained.
Improving Safety Along the Canal
Positive discussions have taken place with Lancashire Police about boater safety, crime and antisocial behaviour along the canal.
These conversations are helping to improve understanding of the particular challenges faced by people living on boats, including the fact that a boat is not simply a possession. For many members of our community, it is their home.
Discussing Canal Improvements
The LCBA has also entered into constructive and encouraging discussions with Lancaster City Council about possible improvements to the canal and the surrounding area.
These discussions provide an important opportunity to ensure that boaters are considered when decisions are made about local services, regeneration, safety, access and future development.
Helping a Boater Return to the Water
Through social grant funding, the LCBA provided a “lift and hold” grant to help one boater complete essential work and return their boat to the water.
This practical support helped someone get moving again and demonstrated how targeted assistance can make a real difference to an individual boater.
Building a Network of Support
There is also much more happening in the background.
The LCBA is developing relationships with local organisations, community groups and other stakeholders to create a stronger network of support for boaters.
The aim is not to duplicate services that already exist, but to help boaters find and access them. Through information, advocacy and signposting, the LCBA hopes to support boater wellbeing, independence and empowerment.
Still Early Days, but Real Progress
The LCBA is still a relatively new organisation, and building something sustainable takes time. Policies must be developed, relationships established, funding identified and agreements carefully negotiated.
Not every piece of work produces an immediate photograph, announcement or public event. However, important progress is being made.
The committee remains committed to building an association that represents boaters, supports those who may be struggling and works constructively with the organisations responsible for the canal and the communities around it.
There is plenty more to come.