Wessex Waterway Network.
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There are several canal networks in the country and these are popular with both boaters and non-boaters. The most well known and extensive network of waterways is in the midlands This was never abandoned and hence with the coming of the new canal age is now more used than ever before pumping millions of pounds sterling into the local economy every year. In the north, another canal network is being re-created by the restoration of the Rochdale and Huddersfield Narrow Canals.

There is only one network in the south: the Wessex Waterway Network. Networks offer choice to recreational boaters - different routes that take a few days to several weeks to travel over. This will attract more visitors and it is the spending by these visitors that is the major economic benefit of restoration.

Less than 5% of people who use canals are boaters, but on the whole it is the boats that attract the people. Thus a busy boating network will attract and benefit local people and visitors, and lay the foundation for a thriving economy - shops, pubs, restaurants, marinas and associated developments, housing, and accommodation. However, the environment also benefits. The canal corridor with its hedge, the water margin and water channel will be a continuous thoroughfare and a haven for all sorts of small animals and birds. In addition, people living in the towns and villages that the Network passes through will be provided with a wonderful new local facility for walking along. A "green corridor" linking the centre of town to the countryside.

The Kennet & Avon Canal, closed to through traffic in the fifties, was reopened to full navigation by the Queen on August 8th 1990. Since then lottery money has been spent to bring the canal up to full cruising standard. The effect of increased boating traffic has already been felt in the region. However, at present the canal is a dead-end and there is limited scope for boaters. The full potential of the canal will only be realised once it is part of the Wessex Waterway Network.

Restoration societies have been formed for the Cotswold Canals (Stroudwater and Thames & Severn canals) and the Wilts & Berks Canal system. Great progress on all these canals has been made over recent years and the benefit is already showing, much more is expected over the next few years.