Buckingham Canal gets council support

AYLESBURY Vale District Council has pledged its full support for the Buckingham Canal Society and its restoration of the disused Buckingham Canal.

The society is hoping the waterways can be restored using the original route wherever possible, and is seeking to develop partnerships with landowners, local authorities and other organisations to help it achieve its aims.

Approved a partnership

At a meeting of council's cabinet on Tuesday, following a short presentation by the society and Councillor Pearl Lewis, members gave their backing to the restoration plans and approved a partnership agreement with the canal society.

The council will now work to:

• Keep BCS informed of any consultations on plans and strategies, or other opportunities for the canal society to contribute to the development of its plans.

• Provide advice on grant funding opportunities and assist BCS in applying for funds.

• Consider opportunities to provide the canal society with equipment and materials.

• Introduce the canal society to other organisations that may assist its restoration plans.

Positive impact

We are told the project is likely to have a positive social and economic impact on the area as well as being of environmental benefit. Restoration of the canal would provide new employment, create a range of leisure opportunities, increase the diversity of the natural environment and preserve important structures and artefacts.

Councillor David Thompson, Cabinet Member for Leisure at Aylesbury Vale District Council VDC, explained:

"The restoration of the canal is a large and ambitious project, but one that AVDC is proud to support. During, and on the completion of the restoration of the canal, it will create a fantastic waterside environment that will bring real benefits to those living and working in Buckingham and the surrounding area.

"We look forward to working with the canal society to help take the project forward."

Grand Union Canal

The waterway to Buckingham ran a total of just under 11 miles from the Grand Union Canal at Cosgrove Lock along the Stony Stratford and Buckingham Arms. The picture shows the canal at Cosgrove.

Much of the canal is now dry, and parts have been built over. Certain sections of the route would need to be created anew due to the development that has taken place in and around villages since the canal's closure.

Feasibility study

Early in 2010, Buckingham Canal Society commissioned an outline feasibility study regarding the restoration of the entire length of the canal arm. The report concluded that it was a feasible project, although significant funding and commitment will be required.

Terry Cavender of the Buckingham Canal Society explained:

"The support for the restoration from the district council through this partnership enables us to further demonstrate the community support for the project. This support is essential when making fund-raising applications to grant-giving bodies to enable the progression of the restoration project.

"Along with our existing partnerships, such as those with British Waterways, Buckinghamshire County Council and Buckingham Town Council, the support of AVDC is viewed by the society as a major step forward as we move into the delivery phases of the restoration work."

The society is actively seeking new members and welcomes participation at all levels from the community. For more details visit www.buckinghamcanal.org.uk