A REGIONAL development agency is very enthusiastic about plans to reopen the Spa's landlocked canals, according to the town's MP.

Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff has met Advantage West Midlands chief executive John Edwards to seek support for the ambitious project.

The Tory MP said it was clear that if British Waterways - one of the key organisations involved - can provide a strong case, the agency will make a significant contribution to the project.

He added: "Worcestershire County Council and Wychavon District Council are doing their bit by putting up £1m each.

"British Waterways is now leading the drive to raise the remaining sum, largely from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Advantage West Midlands.

"It's clear the agency recognised the contribution the canal project could make to Droitwich and Worcester.

"Obviously Mr Edwards gave no firm commitment to make money available but I came back from our meeting in Birmingham more convinced than ever that we will get the canals open."

Cruising ring

Droitwich Canals Trust has been campaigning for decades to breathe new life into the waterways.

The £9m scheme will create a 21-mile cruising ring which county council officers believe could be the only short-break ring in Europe.

Work has already begun and it's hoped the canal will attract an extra 340,000 visitors by the fifth year.

They would spend an estimated £2.75m in the county.

The project could also boost canalside property prices by 15 per cent.