Disappearing boats in Audlem

We've recently had the good news that the canal breach south of Market Drayton should be repaired by 24th October, which will reopen the Shropshire Union Canal in Audlem as a through route, but another local canal matter is now becoming more and more concerning.

For very many years, there have been boats permanently moored in the stretches of canal above and below the canal wharf. However, as owners vacate their moorings, the spaces are not being reoffered by British Waterways.

The result is that there are now many empty gaps, and soon, with this gradual attrition, Audlem's canal corridor will lose a key part of its essential character.

A walk along the Audlem locks is enhanced by the interest created by the variety of moored boats, and there is a risk of the area becoming much less attractive in the future for both local residents and tourists. With the breach, we have seen how critical tourism is to the economy of Audlem.

Mooring policyBritish Waterways mooring policy is generally to do away with most 'linear' moorings, so getting boats into off-line marinas. There is, however, no good navigational reason to empty the moorings at Audlem, as the canal is wide and moored boats are not in the way, and we would suggest that the presence of these boats is of significant benefit to the appearance of, and trade in, the village.

Surely, boat owners should have the choice of a linear or marina mooring, and we would ask British Waterways to reconsider the application of their policy, which is advisory, not compulsory.

Support on this from local residents and traders (and anyone who relies on canal users and other tourists in Audlem) would be much appreciated.

Peter and Christine Silvester
Audlem Mill Limited
The Wharf
AUDLEM
Cheshire
CW3 0DX

Tel: 01270 811059
Fax: 07006 022604
www.audlemmill.co.uk

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