Trust launches Crowdfunding campaign

AS A result of the success of two ambitious bridge building projects, the Wey & Arun Trust has launched a Crowdfunding campaign to help continue the success.

At Birtley, near Bramley, in Surrey, volunteers have not only been responsible for the planning and design of a new bridge, but have constructed the supporting structure in just a matter of months.

Circular canal-side walk

The lift bridge will allow the Trust to create a picturesque 2.5km circular canal side walk in the area, leading from the Downs Link path, and is one of two bridges needed for the purpose.

Teams began creating an access track and towpath at the end of last year, but work on the bridge itself began in July.  With the help of visiting Waterway Recovery Group summer camps and weekend visits, and ongoing support from the Trust’s own volunteers, the bridge structure is complete and ready for its steel deck.

Funds for equipment and materials

The Trust has set up a crowdfunding page to raise funds to pay for equipment and materials needed to complete the Birtley project and what is needed for the second bridge. Investors receive rewards in return for their donations—a £20 donation gets the investor a year's Wey & Arun Canal Trust membership, while donations of more than £500 qualify for a private half-day boat charter on the restored section of the canal at Loxwood in West Sussex for a party of up to 48 people.

The Crowdfunding site can be found at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/birtley-bridges.

Another bridge

Elsewhere, teams have been building a bridge at Harsfold, near Wisborough Green in West Sussex. Volunteers have spent the past few months created a bridleway and footpath diversion, and work on the bridge itself is now well underway, with the aim of completion before next summer.

Chairman Sally Schupke explained:

We are immensely proud of our volunteers and their hard work and commitment shown in getting the projects at Birtley and Harsfold off to such flying starts.  The quality of workmanship is incredibly high and we can’t wait to show visitors what we can achieve.