Droitwich News

Canal boat launch will mark a new era for town

3:00pm Thursday 2nd September 2010

THE first boat to travel along Droitwich Spa’s barge canal for eight decades is set to usher in a new era for the town.

The symbolic launch at 10am on Monday, September 6 marks the full restoration of the 250-year-old barge canal. The boat will be launched at lock one at Hawford, near Droitwich.

The £12million scheme could bring with it the potential for a windfall of visitors and a massive boost for the town’s economy.

A fully restored barge canal means the vision of a 21-mile continuous cruising ring around the scenic heartland of Worcestershire is close to reality, with just the short link of the junction canal scheduled to open in 2011.

British Waterways senior regeneration manager Jason Leach said his was delighted to be welcoming boats back into Droitwich in time to participate in the Salt Day celebrations on Saturday, September 11.

“At the event we will be launching the Mid-Worcestershire ring’s audio trail and providing information on the routes,” he said.

“It’s especially rewarding to see all the diverse efforts of groups and individuals coming to fruition after decades of planning and spadework. This £12million project to restore the barge and junction canals will unlock the entire ring, a green waterway corridor for communities and a magnet for visiting boaters,” he added.

Volunteer partnerships have been at work along the canal corridor for many years, focusing on sites of natural importance. This is only the start of the new life for the canal and there are still plenty of opportunities to get involved in the volunteer programme. Interested individuals and groups should contact suzanne.byrne@britishwaterways.co.uk

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