Council steps in to protect canals

A COUNCIL is worried about the condition of two waterways in its district and has formed a management strategy to help safeguard their future.

A report for Stoke-on-Trent City Council stated that both the Trent & Mersey Canal and Caldon Canal have been assessed as in 'very bad condition' and 'showing high vulnerability' by English Heritage.

Preventing further decay

The authority hopes its strategy will encourage developments that will protect the historic character of the two waterways preventing further decay, and at the same time boosting tourism.

The report suggests the stretch of the Trent & Mersey Canal by Middleport Pottery is one area that could be for future developments.

The council want the  local community groups to take on the responsibility for sections of the deteriorating canals to help with their upkeep.

Opportunity for regeneration

Councillor Tom Reynolds, Chairman of the city council's development management policy group, points out the work that has been done with the canals in such cities as Birmingham and Manchester, and sees the opportunity for regeneration coupled with waterside living.

He wants to see more boaters using the two waterways, and being persuaded to visit the towns through which the Trent & Mersey and Caldon canals pass.