AN exhibition of ambitious plans to enhance the town's canals received an enthusiastic response from residents.

In October, Droitwich Spa Civic Society unveiled proposals for developing the canal basin and Vines Park.

The blueprints were displayed at Droitwich Spa Library, in Victoria Square, for two weeks.

The proposals include a heritage museum, residential development, cafes, footbridges, leisure activities and a canal yard.

Society chairman Donald Fletcher said: "The considerable interest in the proposals confirms our view of the importance to the town of a comprehensive development in the canal basin area.

"We will take forward the enthusiasm and ideas generated by the exhibition in our further consultations with planners and interested parties."

Surveys completed by residents showed 85 per cent supported the development - only four per cent did not.

Nearly half considered the ideas excellent, 40 per cent thought they were good, and less than one per cent opposed them.

People liked the mix of residential development, mooring facilities and town location and many said action was required to enhance the town and put it back on the map.

It is hoped the landlocked waterways will be reopened as part of an ambitious £6m scheme headed by Droitwich Canals Trust.