£1.4 million Anglian Waterways investment announced

Boaters are to benefit from a £1.4 million investment into Anglian Waterways, as the Environment Agency launches its latest improvement programme to protect and maintain navigation on cherished waterways.

The Capital Investment Programme sets out the repairs and upgrades being made across Anglian Waterways’ 353-mile network.

Eight locks are set for refurbishment. The seven-figure investment will ensure the structures remain in good working order for years to come.

The investment programme will also include de-shoaling work on the rivers Great Ouse and Nene. This will remove underwater gravel that builds up naturally and can hamper navigation.

Also included are investigations into improving the Nene’s landing stages, where boaters can disembark, and upgrading control panels at the locks to the same model, making them consistent and easier to use and maintain across the region.

Work started in November and continues throughout the winter months, avoiding the peak boating season to minimise disruption for the river.

Neil Pope, Anglian Waterways assets team leader at the Environment Agency, said: “Our precious waterways are an important part of our nation’s rich heritage and beauty. They are a national treasure, valued for their contribution to our environment, our health and well-being, and our economy. We’re proud to play a part in caring for them, and we take that responsibility very seriously.

“Maintaining them to a good, safe working standard is our number-one priority. We invest money very carefully to ensure the best value for every pound we spend. This means our waterways will continue to offer outstanding value to the many, many people who enjoy them every year.”