Canoeing project launched on Montgomery Canal

The trailer was handed over in time for its baptism at last weekend’s annual Montgomery Canal Dinghy Dawdle.

The £2,000 piece of kit will enable the rapid shuttling of six canoes at a time along the 10 mile (17kms) stretch of dedicated waterway between Berriew and Burgedin.

This length has been earmarked under the Powys Canal Tourism project to promote safe canoeing along the picturesque Montgomery Canal. 'Access to Water' will create a sustainable leisure hub between Burgedin and Berriew, promoting them as rural destinations.
Welshpool will be central to the project as a key visitor destination for accommodation, restaurants and shops. Canoeing is being promoted as part of British Waterways Powys Canal Tourism Project, a partnership dedicated to increasing economic and leisure benefits of the waterway while conserving its unique environment and heritage. Funding for the works has come from the Welsh Assembly and Welsh European Funding Office (WEFO).

The scheme will deliver a wide range of tangible visitor and environmental benefits, including:
- Interpretation and information promoting canoeing, cycling and walking activities;
- 'Soft launch' areas on canal banks at selected points of interest;
- Easier access to stunning surrounding countryside;
- Increased income generation for local businesses;
- A low cost, low impact amenity for visitors and local communities;
- Education and health benefits for an improved lifestyle.

Maggie Ellis of Friends of the Montgomery Canal said the volunteer group already had canoes available to groups for a small donation, and the trailer would be a valuable addition.

Maggie said: "Our canoes were a gift from Welshpool Town Council and we hire them out to interested groups. Now we are arranging for some of our own members to train as qualified instructors," said Mrs Ellis.

Powys Canal tourism project officer Chris Smith said increasing the number of canoeists on the Montgomery Canal was a fundamental part of the overall project. He commented: "The Montgomery Canal has a delicate eco system so canoeing is both a suitable and relaxing way to keep fit. It has a minimal impact on the environment and offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with this magnificent stretch of water."