Water flowing through Helston's kennels has returned

This welcome sound and sight for many comes after an effort to address the issue of the kennels being dry since last autumn.

In May, Helston and Cornwall Councillor Mike Thomas addressed the town’s latest full meeting, proposing solutions to get the water flowing again.

At the time, he reported that during a recent meeting with Helston mayor Miles Kenchington and a variety of experts, it was noted that there was a need for the leats to be repaired and maintained.

However, those present at the time acknowledged there was a lack of funding.

Cllr Thomas estimated that the cost for a ‘light-touch’ survey by local expert Dale Brickhall could be up to £1,000.

A YouTube video from the Museum of Cornish Life which explains where the water comes from. 

He suggested a meeting to be arranged to find a way forward for repairing and maintaining the leat but understood the lack of funds.

Just two months later, a joint initiative involving Cornwall Council, Wendron Parish Council, and Helston Town Council saw the commissioning of a survey to investigate the condition of the leats that feed the kennels.

The survey, presented at the July 2024 Town Council meeting aimed to assess the overall state of the leats and identify the reasons for their inactivity.

Dale who was present at the meeting revealed that debris and obstruction were hindering the flow of water. He managed to clear these obstructions, which eventually restored the water flow to the kennels once again, bringing much joy to many Helston residents.

However, Helston Town Council say that the project is ‘far from over’.

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With the kennels being Grade II listed, the council is proposing to create a ‘Friends of Helston’s Kennels and Wendron’s Leats’ Goup’ to bring together all involved organisations, including councils, private landowners, and residents to create a maintenance plan that ensures the continued flow of water through the kennels.

“Helston residents will have the opportunity to join the group and contribute to the upkeep of the kennels and leats,” say Helston Town Council.

“Volunteers will play a vital role in maintaining sections that do now require specialised work. Further details about this initiative will be made available in the coming months.”

The council said it will provide further updates on the proposed groups on its social media channels and newsletters.