Plans for marina are revealed as its new owner takes over
NEW bosses have revealed their plans for a popular beauty spot near Burton after taking the helm.
Lakeland Leisure Estates has announced that it is now the owner of Barton Marina.
A spokesman for Lakeland Leisure Estates said: “We are excited to introduce Barton Marina on the Trent and Mersey Canal as our newest member of the Lakeland Leisure family.
“Barton is the fifth inland marina operated by Lakeland Leisure Estates and the very first of our portfolio to offer residential moorings.”
Now that it has been officially taken over, the company has plans for the coming months. They include opening a Lakeland Leisure boat sales office “with a friendly and professional team”.
According to bosses: “Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a boat, they will help you throughout the process.”
Planned renovations include updating the walkways on the pontoons with anti-slip grid-mesh and modernising the toilets and wash room facilities.
The firm will also be introducing the Harbour Assist customer portal, which bosses say is the leading cloud-based marina management software, and establishing a brand new chandlery “stocking a comprehensive range of marine products and consumables”.
The marina, in Barton under Needwood, is home to a variety of businesses including The Waterfront pub and restaurant, The Red Carpet Cinema and a variety of independent shops and eateries.
Barton Marina opened for business in 2001 and is home to more than 300 narrowboats linked to the Trent and Mersey Canal.
The spokesman added: “Barton Marina first opened for business in 2001. On the Trent & Mersey Canal in the peaceful surroundings of rural Staffordshire, Barton Marina is just a short drive or a day’s narrowboat cruise from Great Haywood Marina (near Stafford) and offers 300 berths for both residential and annual mooring with monthly, quarterly and annual rates, plus visitor moorings for cruisers looking for somewhere to stay a couple of nights.
“You’ll also find two lakes on site, ideal for fishing and leisurely walks.
“Today, Barton Marina is a vibrant and popular destination for shopping, dining and days out, with regular events such as a monthly artisan market with 40 stalls of unique arts and crafts, and Streatfood Social for the best street food, music and great atmosphere.”