A proposal to re-classify the Kennet and Avon Canal has been welcomed by British Waterways and the canal trust.

The Government is consulting on upgrading the canal from remainder status – one step above a derelict canal – to that of a national cruiseway.

While the canal is classified as a remainder waterway, legally the maintenance requirements are significantly lower than cruiseway status.

However, in reality British Waterways has been managing the canal as if it has had cruiseway status since its multi-million pound restoration.

The canal celebrates its 200th anniversary this year and Mark Stephens, British Waterways manager, said reclassification would secure the canal’s future.

David Rees, chairman of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust, said: “We see this as a commitment from British Waterways to the long-term future of the canal.”