Volunteers are looking to late autumn and the start of the next phase in connecting the Staffordshire & Worcester Canal at Baswich to the town of Stafford.
THE chairman of the Stafford Riverway Link, Paul Bryan, said: “The dedicated group of volunteers have continued to make progress on their aim. The holding basin, with room for 10 permanent moorings, is almost complete.
“The next phase, starting later this autumn, is to build the towpath bridge over what will be the entrance to the basin. This will be achieved thanks in part to the very generous donation of cement and ready mixed concrete from Breedon and an equally generous donation of bricks from Ibstock.
“In addition to the hardy band of volunteers, groups of construction industry students from Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group will be gaining practical on-site brick-laying experience under the guidance of their tutors.
“Despite the very generous donations from our supporters, the project still needs to raise cash. Before the final connection to the canal, the Sky cable will need to be redirected over the new bridge. Volunteers will not be permitted to make the connection to the canal; this will be carried out by Canal & River Trust-approved contractors at a substantial cost.”
One opportunity to donate is the Buy A Brick appeal on the project’s website, www.Stafford-Riverway-Link.co.uk
“Moving forward, the project is in the process of changing from a Community Interest Company (CIC) to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation,” said Mr Bryan.
Up-to-date information on progress and opportunities to volunteer and details of regular work parties and social events can be found on the website and also on the group’s Facebook page.
