Memorandum submitted by Milton Keynes
Council (BW 97)
1. I thought it would be helpful if I made
a contribution to your inquiry regarding British Waterways. My
evidence is based on their involvement in key projects across
the city, their role as a regeneration agency and how we value
their input here in Milton Keynes.
2. The Grand Union Canal runs north south
throughout the Milton Keynes urban area. The canal forms a valuable
part of the city's recreational and leisure infrastructure as
well as providing significant environmental benefits. The canal
passes through a number of our most deprived areas and either
forms or has potential to form an important community asset. BW
has been instrumental in early planning of the railway lands regeneration
in Wolverton, one of these deprived areas.
3. In addition to the existing canal we
have been working with BW to support the development of the new
Bedford to Milton Keynes waterway. We believe that this new canal
is an important element of the delivery of city's growth, as set
out in the Sustainable Communities Plan. The new waterway will
promote the regeneration of the Marston Vale in Bedfordshire and
provide an attractive environment for the new homes planned for
Milton Keynes. BW has been supportive of this project and has
provided resources and expertise wherever possible. The very detailed
knowledge of their staff has been a valuable asset to this project.
4. Past experience of working with British
Waterways has demonstrated that they have strong regeneration
expertise and that they regularly use innovative and imaginative
techniques for community development and engagement. As we begin
to address the regeneration of other estates in Milton Keynes
I would hope to include members from the BW team to develop and
implement the programme.
Juniper-Hope Strong
Strategy and Growth Manager
Milton Keynes Council
April 2007
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