History Newspaper Archives Archives 2009
Full speed ahead as £50m canal gets vote of confidence

full_steam1_ahead_as_50m_canal_100Moves to bring the canal back into the heart of Swindon have been boosted by approval by a government inspector, although such moves are opposed by Labour Councillors. The inspector stated that the evidence indicates that the route is technically feasible, full_steam2_western_daily_press_16_feb09_100forming a focal point for the town and stimulating regeneration.

The article reports the disappointment of the Cricklade planners with the revision of their ambitious project to take a canal into the town centre. Enthusiastic volunteers in the Chippenham & Melksham area did 4000 hours of work in 2007. Parts of the canal at Lacock have been fully restored.

Western Daily Press 16 Feb 2009