Wed 18 Mar 1812
Meeting at the Globe Tavern Fleet Street London
Meeting agreed with cooperation with the Thames Commissioners and a bill to be introduced to parliament for the improvement of navigation of the Thames above Abingdon. Time limit for the introduction of private bills to the House of Commons had expired so no bill had been presented. So the expectation on which the company adopted that resolution has not been realized. The works made at Culham and Clifton being below Abingdon are of remote advantage to this company and after a conference held with the Thames commissioners on the 21st February no works had been ordered for above Abingdon. Past works had only been partially wanting but are of vital importance to the Thames and Severn Canal. Resolved therefore that the Severn Junction canal from or near Latton to or near Swindon will be a measure highly beneficial to the Thames and Severn Company by affording a canal navigation to Abingdon in aid of the River Thames, which will be extremely useful when the natural river floods or may not be passable and affording a more western navigation from Latton. All steps to be taken to revive and promote the Severn Junction Canal and negotiations with the Wilts and Berks to proceed for an equitable result.
Application to be made to the commissioners of the Thames Navigation to lay out a sum of money for improving the river above Abingdon.
