The £21,000 project, which was supported by the British Canoe Union and FCC Environment (via landfill communities funds administered by waste recycling organisation WREN), involved creating new lock platforms at key points along the River Weaver as well installing new floating platforms to enable easy access into the water.
David Hennessey, project manager from the Canal & River Trust, said: “The River Weaver is a really popular waterway however we realised that at some points along the river canoeists can find it a struggle to get in and out of the water. These new platforms will enable canoeists to easily access the water and hopefully encourage more people to get out and discover this beautiful stretch of river.”
Great physical activity
New lock landing stages have been installed alongside Dutton and Saltersford locks and at Acton Bridge and a new platform, which will act as a launch point, has been installed at Runcorn.
Gareth Field, Canoe England senior development officer, said: “We are delighted we were able to help contribute to this project and help provide access to the water for the local community. Canoeing is a great physical activity and is suitable for the whole family and with these new access improvements I hope that many more people will be able to access the river for a paddle with friends or family.”
Richard Smith from WREN added: “The River Weaver really is one of the nicest spots in the whole country for canoeing. Once on the water canoeists can paddle for miles whilst enjoying their surroundings and watching the wildlife - I really would recommend a visit.”
