Wiltshire Council is calling on boaters living along the county’s waterways to share their views as the Wiltshire Boater Survey 2026 launches.

Members of Wiltshire Council Public Health Team will walk stretches of the canal on Tuesday 6 October to help boost participation in the survey and hear from boaters about local issues.

A previous survey in 2023 generated more than 200 responses with people sharing a range of challenges for living on Wiltshire’s waterways.

As a result of the previous survey changes took place including:

• Boat repair assistance
• Energy and fuel support
• Food and wellbeing initiatives
• Canal-side dental clinics
• Solar energy projects
• Floating Fayres and community events
• Blue Bus family activities

Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health Wiltshire Council said: “Our previous survey provided valuable insight into the realities of life on the canal. It also reinforced the importance of the boating community being listened to and involved in decisions that affect their unique way of life. Since then, we have worked with partners to respond to the issues raised and turn feedback into action.

“Now we want to hear from boaters again. Participation in the 2026 survey will help us understand what has improved, what challenges remain and where future support should be focussed.  Together, we can build on the progress already made and work towards a healthier, safer and more inclusive future for everyone living on and around the canal.”

The survey is available online, but paper copies will be available at canal-side venues such as the marina at Caen Hill, the Hub in Bradford on Avon, and the Barge Inn at Honeystreet, together with drop boxes where boaters can return the completed paper survey. There will also be six chances to win a £50 voucher for those who complete either the online survey or return a paper copy. Boaters can complete anonymously if they prefer.

The survey remains open for four weeks until 11.59pm on Friday 30 October 2026.

Boaters can complete the survey here https://surveys.wiltshire.gov.uk/s/hj7usq