Ashby Canal path link gathers pace
WORK is under way to build a new trail following a grant awarded to the Ashby Canal Association by IWA in 2020. This was one of four projects that received a share of a £100,000 Waterways in Progress grant.
These projects were chosen for their potential to demonstrate how well-thought-out, partial restoration initiatives can start to deliver benefits right from day one.
The village of Snarestone in Leicestershire, at the terminus of the canal, is a short walk from Measham. However, there is little to link the two settlements. Waterway users arriving at Snarestone along the canal often aren’t aware that Measham – with its shops and facilities – is close by.
To get to the village, people currently have to walk along country lanes with poor visibility and unsafe verges.
Work has started on the trail with volunteers rolling up their sleeves to clear and level a section of the path.
Several new gates are now installed on the trail that will create a safe pathway link between the village and the canal.
A delivery of 20 waymarkers has also been keeping the hard-working volunteers busy.
It is hoped that the trail will help to regenerate the area and highlight the local heritage.