The Trust is restoring the historic route of the Wilts & Berks Canal with diversions where necessary to enable the reconnection of the Kennet and Avon Canal near Melksham through Swindon to the River Thames at Abingdon.

The Trust is developing the canal with, and for, the local communities along the route as a public access area for walking, cycling or just watching, as well as boating. The improvement of biodiversity and the environment for people are key aims of the restoration projects.

The canal route from the crossing of Pack Hill road to the crossing of Wanborough Road is a particularly difficult length. The canal route is dependent upon the route chosen for the Southern Connector Road which has now been published. Local constraints such as the important archaeological remains recently discovered there and the drainage in the area are also important.

The Trust has now developed several options for the route and seeks views about them from local residents, landowners and the general public as well as the authorities which have to be consulted before a route can be chosen.

The posters are available here.

Click map below for a quick look at the area - 

thumb 2019 05 wantage consultation map