Memorandum submitted by Jim & Penny
Higginson
THE COTSWOLD CANAL TRUST
1. I am writing in connection with British
Waterways having withdrawn its support from the "Cotswold
Canal Partnership" for the restoration of the canal system
from the River Thames to the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.
This canal is a fascinating and interesting link running through
a great many miles of rural and beautiful countryside.
2. I have read the article in the Cotswold
Canal's Newsletter No. 8 regarding the possibility that the House
of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee
is set to re-examine British Waterways' regeneration and restoration
role, with particular reference to BW's decision to withdraw from
the Cotswold Canal Partnership and the very short notice that
the Cotswold Canal Trust was given.
3. I would like to stress the importance
of this restoration to the overall canal system, in that it would
add a major round trip link (ring) for the South of England of
almost 200 miles, which would include the Gloucester & Sharpness
Canal, The Grand Union Canal, The Oxford Canal and the River Thames.
It would be extremely beneficial to the great many boats and their
users who have moorings in all these areas, as well as adding
a spectacular cruising link for boat users from all over the waterways
system in the UK.
4. Once again we should like to stress the
importance of, and urge you to take a new look at, the Cotswold
Canal Trust's restoration programme, with a view to reinstating
the Partnership and financial support to this very worthwhile
restoration project. The Cotswold Canal Trust has been working
long and hard on this restoration programme, and still are, despite
having received the devastating news of the withdrawal by British
Waterways.
Thank you for your help and support.
Jim and Penny Higginson
March 2008
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