Canal scheme criticised

A £9m scheme to restore a canal in Droitwich to its former glory has been criticised by a canal trust.

The Droitwich Canals Trust said the plans do not give enough moorings for canal boaters and the housing and office developments are not in keeping with the local heritage.

Wychavon District Council is overseeing the planning process of the restoration project.

The 18th Century canal has been in decline since the demise of the salt trade in the early 20th Century.

The council is encouraging comments from local people on the restoration of the canal in Droitwich.

The council's head of planning, Jack Hegarty, said the proposals for Droitwich Spa would benefit everybody from residents to tourists alike.

Mr Hegarty said the area would follow in the footsteps of other successful canal-side projects throughout the region, such as Brindley Place in Birmingham.