Marina debate hits the press

The new marina proposed less than a mile north of Audlem on the Shropshire Union canal is attracting opposition. Following representations to Audlem Parish Council at Monday's meeting, this week's Chronicle features a group of local residents protesting against the development.

Angus and Jane Maughan, of Monks Hall Farm, Hankelow, have submitted plans to build a 200-berth marina – as reported in detail on Audlem Online on 29th October under the headline "From Cows to Canals." At that time, no objections had been received but residents along Coole Lane are now concerned as the marina will be built on their side of the canal and access will come off the lane.

Audlem Parish Council voted to support the application on Monday evening but it was pointed out that the marina is just outside the parish boundary. Those objecting say that if the marina is built it will leave Audlem isolated, leaving pubs and shops struggling to attract visiting boaters.

Angus Maughan denies that tourism will be dragged away from Audlem and added that he hoped to work alongside the local businesses. He told the Chronicle: "We feel very strongly that it will bring tourism to Audlem. If you want to buy a paper or go for a small amount of shopping then you can just nip into the village.

Campaigner Vic Harris said: "The lane itself is already a scandal. It's got to rate as one of the worst maintained roads around here. If you add to that the traffic coming down here, particularly in the building process, it's going to get worse."

Representations to Crewe & Nantwich Borough Council's planning department should be submitted by 17th December.

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