On August 6, The Adver reported that the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, a charity group working to restore the canal through Swindon, was targeted by thieves who cut and drilled out the locks to steal pieces of equipment. The funds were used to replace the compactor and return it to its owner, and fix the security on the door. Following a recent appeal, a petrol mower and petrol canisters had been donated, and they were stolen during the incident. The canal trust is a group of volunteers who have an action plan to revive and restore the canal around Swindon. Around Swindon, the trust are looking into the next phase of development by building a road bridge in Wichelstowe.