The Felpersham Canal: An Asset Beyond Ambridge - Paul Rodgers

Welcome to the fifth series in the annual podcast programme from Academic Archers, bringing you papers from our 2024 conference.

This episode takes us beyond Ambridge, exploring the imagined history and real-world potential of the Felpersham Canal.

The Felpersham Canal: An Asset Beyond Ambridge - Paul Rodgers

For almost a decade in the author’s imagination, the Felpersham Canal has taken shape as a living part of Borsetshire’s landscape. This paper traces its story from its origins in the 18th century, through its heyday up to the 1920s, its years of decline, and the plans for its restoration and reconnection to the national waterways network via the River Severn.

Drawing on the history of British canals, the presentation highlights the economic, social and environmental benefits of waterways, their transformative impact on communities, and what this could mean for Ambridge and its neighbours. Endorsements from waterways ambassadors including Sir David Suchet, Griff Rhys Jones, John Bishop, Sir Tim Smit, and Timothy Spall enrich the case for restoration.

Following the conference, the Felpersham Canal Trust will launch as a Community Interest Company, creating a central hub for knowledge and resources to support over 50 restoration projects across the UK. It may even prove useful to The Archers scriptwriters.

About the speaker

• Paul Rodgers is a passionate advocate for the UK’s navigable canals and waterways. He has appeared on BBC Radio and Countryfile, and worked with the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Waterways to bring the sector’s challenges to government attention. A former National Chair of the Inland Waterways Association, he hosted regular Waterways Webinars during the Covid period and leads hands-on restoration projects for volunteers of all ages. Beyond his volunteering, Paul is an entrepreneur, innovator, and community builder in the financial sector.

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