THE CANAL & RIVER TRUST has closed the canalside refuse collection point in Market Drayton on the Shropshire Union Canal.
The civic leaders of the Market Drayton Town Council tell that this could have a significant impact on the town's economy, Janet Friend reports.
Frustration
The council has written to Canal & River Trust to express its frustration over the closure of the waste disposal facility for boaters at Bridge 63 at Betton Mill.
Mayor, Councillor Tim Manton explained:
"The canal, for our town, and particularly Talbot Wharf is a particular draw for us. It is a draw for visiting boaters that moor up in Market Drayton, an important draw for walkers along the canal, and for visiting boaters.
"It is understood that canal users are now being advised to travel to Audlem or Tyrley to dispose of their waste—a move councillors state could deter visiting boaters from stopping in Market Drayton.
"They have rubbish that they need to get rid of, and somewhere to get rid of it."
Particularly disappointed
They tell they are particularly disappointed with regards to the closure of the waste disposal in Market Drayton which means the nearest one is now at Tyrley, so boaters are no longer staying at the town.
[Like many other boaters, we always stop at Market Drayton, when cruising the Shropshire Union, not only to get rid of rubbish but to shop and sometimes eat, in the attractive town. So the council has a valid point—Editor.]