Restoration Update

June 2011 update

This summer a 38 year community led project to re-open the Droitwich Canals in Worcestershire will be completed. The only ‘whole canals’ to be fully restored in almost a decade, the Droitwich Canals are the final link in a brand new ‘cruising circuit’ – the Mid-Worcestershire Ring. The ring allows boats, cyclists and ramblers to make a 21-mile circular journey through some of the UK’s most beautiful and historic countryside, from the Worcester & Birmingham Canal to the River Severn, through the city of Worcester and back again.

More than 70 years after the Droitwich Canals were officially abandoned, they will formally open to the public on 1 July, followed by a weekend of celebrations which will also mark the 240th anniversary of the canals original opening.

As part of the canal restoration, a linear park has been created providing picnic sites, fishing pegs, and new stop off points for boaters, walkers and cyclists. Miles of towpath have also been upgraded, with new and improved access points and 26 new visitor moorings. The area is also rich in wildlife and the creation of reed beds along the restored canals, using reeds saved from the canal before its restoration, means everyone can enjoy the sights of sounds of nature up close.

The dedication and determination of the local community supported by the project partners were the catalyst to restoring the canals, which are now set to attract thousands more visitors to the area and bring a major long-term boost to the local economy, generated an additional £2.75m a year.

For more information on the restoration please see the attached restoration guide.