There are many different benefits from restoring these historic canals.

These include:

· conserving and enhancing the landscape and wildlife
· attracting people and government to invest in the area
· providing a wide corridor for leisure and tourism
· encouraging communities to work together

Living history

The original construction of the canals and their subsequent decline is a vital piece of the region’s history and their restoration is just as important. The Cotswold Canals helped shape the community, industry and landscape in the region for nearly 200 years and their renaissance will do so again.

Conservation led regeneration

By adopting a conservation led approach to the regeneration of the Cotswold Canals, it will actively encourage biodiversity through a better managed natural environment. Not only will structures like locks and bridges be properly restored, the environment alongside the canal will become one that everyone can enjoy.

Restoration of the canals will be a catalyst for regeneration, creating opportunities for employment, leisure and recreation thereby ensuring the continued care and preservation of the canals into the future.

Sustainable leisure and tourism

The resulting environment will provide a corridor for leisure and recreation, improving the quality of life for local people. The 10km multi-user trail from Stonehouse to Brimscombe will provide new opportunities for healthy activity.

These improvements will create an appealing destination, attracting more visitors to the area.

Neighbourhood renewal and community cohesion

The restoration of the canal is a means for promoting community development. The regeneration of derelict and redundant areas will boost local pride in the surroundings. Wide cross sections of the community will be able to get involved in the restoration programme through a wealth of volunteering opportunities, thereby developing a sense of ownership and understanding.

Urban renaissance and investment leverage

The public funds invested in the restoration will be more than matched by increased private investment along the canal corridor.

As evidenced on other restoration projects, such as the recently restored and hugely successful Kennet & Avon Canal, canal restoration brings about significant social, economic and environmental benefits to the local area in terms of employment for local people both during the restoration and when it is completed.

Phase 1 – Stonehouse to Brimscombe Port

Key Facts

By 2014 the restoration of the Stroudwater Navigation between Stonehouse and Brimscombe Port will:

· Attract 215,000 extra visitors to the area each year
· Create 21 new permanent jobs in tourism
· Generate £531,000 of additional income from visitors in the local economy each year
· Create 13,800m2 of new work space
· Attract £83 million in private sector investment
· Create 600 new permanent jobs in the private sector
· Conserve 30 historic structures, including bridges and locks
· Help protect rare species including bats, water vole and native crayfish
· Create a 10 mile multi-user trail, enabling all members of the community to benefit from this project

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