WORK to Droitwich Spa’s canal network will bring new life to the town and with it future economic opportunities, according to Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff.

The progress of the restoration project and re-opening of the town’s barge and junction canals is a real reason for optimism in difficult times says Mr Luff.

His views come after he visited the canal project on Monday (September 14) with Jason Leach from British Waterways to see for himself the state of the project.

Mr Luff walked through the new tunnel under the A449, witnessed dredging of the Barge Canal between the A449 and the River Severn, and saw the outstanding restoration of the two locks between the river and the tunnel.

He said: “I know life is difficult for many people at present, but what is happening on the local canals is a real reason for optimism. When they are open next year, they will bring new life to the town and new economic opportunities to significant areas of the county.

“I congratulate British Waterways and all their partners on what has been achieved.

“After so much work by so many people, and especially by the volunteers in the Droitwich Canals Trust, it is wonderful to see the dream of re-opening both the Junction and Barge Canals becoming a reality.

“I am sure that the new Worcestershire Cruising Ring that is being created will be one of the most popular waterway destinations in the country and will represent a huge boost to local tourism.”