1902: Opposition to the Closure of the Canal

From the Evening North Wilts Herald, 1st May 1902

At a meeting of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce yesterday a communication was received from the traders and others interested in the Wilts and Berks Canal, calling attention to proposals under which the water of the canal would be abstracted and used for the water supply of the town of Swindon.

It was pointed out that such proposals, if carried into effect, would completely destroy an important link in the line of the canal communication between the Thames and the Avon, and the assistance of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce was asked for in opposition to the scheme.

It was resolved to refer the matter for consideration and report to the Railway and Canals Committee.