Canal towpath set for £50k upgrade
DEVELOPER CASH TO BE PUT TO GOOD USE
BOOST: The towpath near the Nutts Lane bridge is to be improved, and there are calls for the bridge itself to be given some attention
A WALKWAY alongside the Ashby Canal is to be spruced up, thanks to funds from a developer.
A 240-metre stretch of the towpath in the Nutts Lane bridge area of Hinckley is to be widened and laid with a new surface, which will connect to an existing access to the Sansome Drive estate.
Taylor Wimpey built the housing complex and, as part of the project, has provided £50,000 for the Canal and River Trust to upgrade the waterside route.
Alan Leather, enterprise manager at the trust, said that revamping the path would be a great benefit to town residents.
He said: “The period of lockdown has really demonstrated the importance of having tranquil, green spaces on our doorstep and this new section of path will make it easier and more appealing for local people to use the canal to keep active and clear their minds.
“As a charity we’re incredibly grateful for the funding to make these improvements possible and pleased to be working with Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council.
“It’s great to see how much people value the canal and recognise the important role it can play in daily lives.
“Whether it’s a green, trafficfree route to work, a place to keep fit or just a quiet place to de-stress, the canal is on the doorstep and free for everyone to enjoy and these works will ensure more people can discover the benefits of spending time by the water.”
Stuart Bray, leader of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, thanked the trust for deliovering the works, and said: “The towpath improvements will make an attractive and accessible addition to the area and make it possible for even more residents to enjoy some pleasant and tranquil time waterside.”
Councillor David Bill wrote to the trust earlier this year, as the deadline for using the funds was approaching, urging the group to put forward a proposal.
The works are set to begin on July 6 and will last for four weeks. The towpath will be closed for the duration with temporary diversions in place.