We are launching a major £100,000 fundraising appeal to restore the final 230 metres of the Lichfield Canal at Gallows Reach.
Completing the third and final phase of Gallows Reach will complete the missing link between the existing water-filled sections at Borrowcop Locks Canal Park and Gallows Wharf, delivering a continuous stretch of restored, watered canal through Gallows Reach.
Following an unsuccessful grant application, we are now asking the public, and particularly local businesses, to help fund this vital stage of the restoration.
The first milestone is to secure £25,000 in pledges by 5pm on 28 August 2026. With £8,250 already pledged, we are now calling on supporters to help raise the remaining £16,750.
These pledges will help double donations made by the public during the Big Give Christmas Challenge campaign week and could also unlock additional match funding from a Big Give Champion. Pledges must be between £100 and £25,000 and will not be payable until December, when the campaign launches.
Christine Howles, Communications & Marketing Trustee at LHCRT, said:
“Gallows Reach has seen amazing progress over the last year, with 85 metres already in water and the new lift bridge now in place. We now need support to complete phase 3, the final piece of the jigsaw, between the lift bridge and Cricket Lane.
“With the right investment, we can bring water back to this historic stretch of canal, create new habitats, strengthen wildlife corridors and provide local people with a beautiful, safe route for walking, cycling and improving wellbeing.
“Every pledge makes a real difference. We’re asking businesses, organisations and individuals to consider pledging £100 or more to help us reach our first £25,000 target and give us the potential unlock valuable champion match funding.”
The completed project will deliver significant environmental benefits, improve flood resilience, support sustainable travel and enhance local heritage, while taking another important step towards reconnecting Lichfield with the national canal network.
Make a pledge
Pledge before 28 August 2026 to form the match fund for the appeal and to help unlock champion funding.
