The custom-built vessel, named Sister Dora, was formally launched this week by the Mayor of Walsall. The custom-built barge will be moored in Walsall’s town centre canal basin. 

The Sister Dora will enable volunteers from the Canal & River Trust to remove litter and green waste more efficiently along the canal and towpaths, ensuring the area remains a clean, pleasant place to visit. The barge includes a large hopper attachment for collecting waste, as well as on-board facilities such as a toilet, changing area, and small kitchen to support staff working long hours on the water.

The initiative has been funded through the Community Regeneration Partnership Funding from central government for Walsall Town Centre and forms part of Walsall Council’s wider Active Public Spaces project. This also includes security gates for canal basin moorings, water/power bollards, water cleaning equipment and the volunteer cleaning barge (Sister Dora), providing around £250,000 of public investment into improving the town centre’s public areas. 

“ The Sister Dora barge is a fantastic addition to Walsall’s town centre. Our canals are part of our town’s greatest assets and keeping them clean and welcoming is vital for residents, visitors and local businesses. By maintaining our waterways, we’re also supporting the rich variety of wildlife that calls them home from ducks and swans to fish and plants, helping nature to thrive right in the heart of Walsall “

Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison
Walsall Council

“ The Walsall Canal is at the heart of the town, and the ‘Sister Dora’ will help our local volunteers keep this wonderful waterway vibrant, clean, and welcoming. By caring for our canals, we’re creating a place where people can relax, explore, and feel proud of their local community “

Ian Lane
Canal & River Trust

The Sister Dora will be moored in Walsall’s town centre canal basin and is expected to begin operations in the coming weeks, helping to ensure Walsall’s waterways remain a source of local pride.