Memorandum submitted by Beacon Park Boats
Ltd
As a business affected by the recent breach
of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, we are writing in support
of the outstanding work that British Waterways is undertaking
in bringing about the speedy re-opening of this critical waterway.
We own and operate a canal hire boat business
providing seasonal and permanent employment and attracting over
3000 visitors a year, both from the UK and overseas. There are
a further five businesses on this canal attracting similar visitor
numbers. We therefore cannot emphasise strongly enough the economic
importance of this waterway in terms of visitor numbers and the
resulting income they bring to the local economy.
We have an exceptional working relationship
with British Waterways founded in the common goal of ensuring
the long term security of this beautiful canal.
From day one of the breach, British Waterways
has worked with us to ensure the impact on our economy has been
minimised. There is a recognition that investment in the canal
at this stage will ensure it's long term security for many generations
to come; there has not been a rush for a quick fix solution a
great deal of thought and consultation has gone into a plan which
is sustainable and workable with as little disruption as possible.
Their approach has demonstrated an understanding that this waterway
represents more than a British Waterways asset. It is an economic
artery upon which this entire area depends and through which communities
thrive and remain vibrant and attractive places in which to live
and work and to visit.
The Monmouthshire and Brecon canal contributes
hugely to the health and well being of the local communities through
which it travels in South Wales and is viewed as a tremendous
asset by them. The ongoing work carried out by British Waterways
is greatly valued and appreciated and well scrutinised by these
communities for whom an asset such as this is recognised as a
rare and valuable commodity to be treasured.
Given the financial restrictions on all public
sector organisations at this time, we can understand the difficult
business decisions that have to be taken to ensure a future for
our business and the local communities dependant on the Monmouthshire
and Brecon Canal. We would urge the committee to recognise the
valuable work that British Waterways is doing and has undertaken
in safeguarding this incredible asset in South Wales and ask that
this be supported through financial commitment to the ongoing
works required to ensure that the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal
maintains its status as one of Britain's best loved canals.
Alasdair and Sarah Kirkpatrick
Beacon Park Boats Ltd
March 2008
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