A public petition to facilitate the restoration of the Ashby Canal from Bridge 62 north of Snarestone to Measham

Background History:- Leicestershire County Council was, during the
1990's, leading the restoration of the canal from Snarestone to Moira and in
2005 secured a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) covering the section
through to Measham. A short length from the then terminus at Snarestone to
Bridge 62 was built and then progress dwindled and stagnated.

Given this sad situation, the Ashby Canal Association arranged a meeting in
November 2016 at the Royal Hotel Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Some thirty-four
persons attended including Parish and District Councilors, National Forest,
Natural England and various local interested organisations and Leicestershire
County Council. The meeting was chaired by the local MP.

In a tabled document, Leicestershire County Council stated that they would no longer proceed with the canal restoration and asked if an interested body would take over the works together with the TWAO. In February 2017 Ashby Canal Association formally accepted the offer stating their commitment to the restoration of the waterway. In November 2023 it will be six years since the ACA's acceptance and Leicestershire County Council have failed to carry out the transfer to date.

The restoration of the canal to Measham Wharf and Moira will contribute to
economic recovery and encourage increased spend in the local community. It
will enhance the natural environment and protect heritage for future
generations. It will connect local communities and provide opportunities for
education for young people and create jobs. And further, it will encourage
improved physical health and mental health and well-being. It will create a
better place to live.