Moorings on the Barge Canal

Published: Wednesday, 07 July 2010

Moorings are being installed along the soon to be re-opened Barge Canal at Vines Park.

British Waterways Senior Regeneration Manager Jason Leach said some will be permanent moorings to ensure year round activity, although the majority will be for visitors bringing in valuable income to the town, explaining:

"The work will last for about two weeks and will involve some noise and towpath disruption during normal working hours. However, the end product means Droitwich will be able to welcome boats back to its canals for the first time in nearly 70 years.

Open later this year

The Barge Canal between the Severn and Droitwich is hoped to be open later this year, with the Junction Canal scheduled to follow in 2011.

The 7.5 miles canal restoration is a major project for the region and county. Restoring these canals will link the Worcester & Birmingham Canal to the Severn, creating a 21 mile cruising circuit, named the Mid Worcestershire Ring.

British Waterways' Michelle Kozomara writes:

To ensure a sustainable legacy, the canal restoration will provide an opportunity for communities, individuals and interest groups such as Droitwich Canals Trust and Worcester Birmingham Canal Society to play an active role in maintaining, developing and improving the waterway corridors around the ring.