FEARS have emerged that proposals for the £9m canal restoration won't deliver the grand opportunities the town first hoped.

£1m pledge

Jon Axe, a Droitwich Canals Trust director, has accused Wychavon District Council of 'selling off the family silver' to recoup its £1m pledge. He says its waterways supplementary planning guidance consultation draft lacks vision.

The document reveals proposals to rejuvenate the Spa's landlocked canals and gives residents until Monday, August 11 to have their say on proposals.

Mr Axe told the Advertiser: "Personally, I don't see the plan as creating the right ambience to make Droitwich attractive to the boating fraternity or enhance the Spa as a canal side visitor attraction.

"The family silver will be sold off to developers for short-term gain to satisfy Wychavon."

His concerns are:

z Developing Hampton Road Wharf for housing and offices will be unattractive.

z The lack of temporary moorings in Vines Park will discourage boaters from calling into the town centre.

z There are no attempts to reflect Spa heritage.

z The proposed 90 boat canal basin is too small. A very large basin, providing up to 200 secure moorings would generate more jobs and revenue, Mr Axe reckons .

Droitwich Spa Association for Retail, Tourism and Services (DARTS) said plans were criticised at its July meeting - particularly ideas for the marina and waterfront developments.

Chairman Richard Brighton explained: "It's vital people speak up now because developments proposed in the future, that do not meet the agreed planning guidelines, will not be incorporated into the scheme.

Anyone who wants to add their comments to the DARTS response should call him on 01905 775395 - by Sunday.

Wychavon leader, Councillor Martin Jennings (Con - Bengeworth) said "Rather than selling off the family silver we are investing heavily in this project.

"Our £1m contribution will see new jobs, leisure opportunities and tourism attractions benefiting Droitwich and surrounding areas.

Transfer

"We are also transferring canal ownership to British Waterways or The Waterways Trust at nil cost and providing staff to take the project forward.The draft has been produced so townsfolk can comment on future planning proposals and help us get it right. The rewards will be seeing Netherwich Basin become a thriving, vibrant part of the town."