Browse Sections

• Business
• Technology
• Greenlife
• Health
• Showbiz
• Education
• Local elections
• Shipman
• Special reports
• User comments

Blockade stops canal traffic

Nicola Dowling
27/11/2006

BOAT owners blockaded a Manchester city centre canal to protest against cuts in funding for British Waterways.

About 25 canal boats gathered on the Rochdale Canal at Dukes Lock, in Castlefield, as part of the demonstration.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has reduced funding for the upkeep and maintenance of canals and rivers over the next five years.

Graeme Bridge, of the Association of Waterways Cruising Clubs, said: "Government cannot cut funding for such a valuable community resource."

Will Chapman, of Save Our Waterways, said: "People are angry that a valuable local resource for everyone may fall back into disrepair and decay."

Most recent 1 of 1 user comments