Since the breach and the apparent condition of the canal where it occurred, BW has carried out a detailed geotechnical survey of the 16 mile stretch of the canal, from Llanover to Talybont.

The initial assessment indicates that significant works may be required to secure the canal infrastructure and further investigation over the next six weeks will give much clearer picture as to how BW might best achieve this.

Therefore there is every likelihood that the affected stretch of canal will not be available for cruising throughout next year.

'Our top priority is to secure the future and safety of this canal, which is arguably one of the most beautiful and popular cruising waterways in Britain,' said Julie Sharman, BW general manager for Wales & Border Counties. 'We are increasingly of the view that the best option for the canal is to carry out a major programme of renovation across the central 16 mile length.

'Although a closure next year may be the best way to secure the long term future of the canal, we know it will have a huge impact on boating businesses, individual boaters and the local community. That is why we have already started meetings with those involved with a view to minimising that impact.'

The original estimate for the repair of the breach only was in the region of £1.5m, but the renovation of this 16 mile length could cost up to £20m. Although BW is insured for third party risks and damage to property it will have to finance any repairs to the actual waterway. Some major winter maintenance works – such as the rebuilding of Vale Royal Small Lock on the River Weaver – have already been deferred to fund the repair work.

Apart from the problems for other users, the holiday hire boat operators – who enjoy some of the best bookings on the waterway system – will be seriously affected. Alasdair Kirkpatrick of Beacon Park Boats is adopting a positive attitude to the situation and told us that, even though his company may not be able to hire boats out until March 2009, the full renovation of the canal will, in the long term, be good for his business and other users of the canal.

Alasdair’s base at Llanfoist Wharf is isolated and will remain so, with the added problem of his boats being located elsewhere.

He praised BW for its professional management of this unforeseen failure and is very grateful that they have totally committed to not only restoring the breached area but inspecting and possibly relining the canal guaranteeing its future.

Hire operators are currently informing customers who have already made bookings for 2008. The question of compensation for the companies and others affected will be considered by BW’s loss adjusters.

The canal and associated waterside businesses from Talybont to Brecon and Llanover to Cwmbran remain unaffected by the works. The towpath remains open to the public.