Historic canal brought back to life by a team of volunteers
The project could not have been possible without the team of dedicated volunteers digging the site
Last updated 21st Aug 2026
Construction on what has become known as 'the missing mile' has begun. The task of reinstating the lost canal has largely been done by a team of dedicated volunteers.
Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project aims to bridge the gap between the restored Stroudwater Navigation and the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.
The missing section of the canal was filled in during the 1960s to make way for construction of the M5 motorway.
The River Frome has now been successfully diverted and temporary dams have been installed to allow for construction under the M5 to get started.
Volunteers have been working hard to dig the site near Eastington, they look forward to enjoying the canal once its complete. The project is set to be finished in 2029 - the 250 year anniversary of when the original Stroudwater navigation was opened!