Bridge appeal launched

THE  Wey & Arun Canal Trust has launched an appal for funds for a new bridge over the waterway that is at present blocked by a causeway.

The Trust has already restored a section of canal near Alfold, in Surrey, on the summit pound level next to Dunsfold Park airfield. Its next aim is to replace the causeway with a new bridge which at present blocks the through navigation for boats. But before that can happen the Trust needs to raise £700,000 and carry out some major engineering work.

Work could start

The Trust hopes to raise £180,000 of the target for what is known as the Compasses Bridge project by the end of this year so that work to replace the existing concrete causeway can start on site in April 2015, with Chairman  Sally Schupke explaining:

"The initial funding target will allow us to complete the design and planning work and choose our contractor. We will then need to raise the next £290,000 by September next year to fund the construction phase and the final £230,000 to complete demolition and landscaping work that will enable us to reopen the navigation.

"While the total cost of this work is a large sum, we are staging it over more than two years to match the sequence of construction and to maximise our opportunities to draw on a wide range of funding sources."

Create more opportunities

Completion of the project will result in a further 2km of the canal being restored and create more opportunities for trip boats and for boating events. According to Sally, the work will also enhance the 'green corridor' and is all part of the Trust's strategy to make significant progress in Surrey.

If you would like to contribute to this element of the restoration being undertaken by the Wey & Arun Canal Trust, which is one of three major projects currently underway, donations can be made via the website www.weyandarun.co.uk or by sending a cheque payable to 'Compasses Bridge appeal', WACT, The Granary, Flitchfold Farm, Loxwood, West Sussex RH14 0RH. Cheques payable to 'Wey & Arun Canal'.