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A set of activites have been planned this Bank Holiday Monday to celebrate the opening of the first section of the Bridgewater Way in Trafford.
The opening is part of a £8 million project to regenerate the 65 km Bridgewater Way canal path, creating a route for cyclists and walkers. When complete, the project is expected to attract half a million visitors a year and generate £6 in the local economy – creating 250 jobs.
The opening celebrations start on Bank Holiday Monday May 31st and will stretch until June 6th. The official opening ceremony will take place on Friday 4th, with the Mayor of Trafford taking on the ceremonial duties.
Activities include canoeing, cycling, boat trips and an exhibition (www.bridgewatercanal.co.uk).
Cllr Ken Weston, chairman of Trafford Bridgewater Way Steering Group, said: "I’m delighted to see this project come to fruition and hope to see as many local people in Trafford as possible coming along to take part in the celebrations. The Bridgewater Way is one of the Borough’s great assets and the work that has been carried out has made this stretch of the route more attractive and accessible for all users."
Louise Morrissey, director of Land and Planning at Peel (owner of the canal) added: "We are delighted to open this section of the Bridgewater Way in Trafford. The works have opened up the canal side to all users enabling people to enjoy the beauty of this valued historic asset."
Sustrans Area Manager for the North West Peter Green enthused: "We are immensely pleased to be opening this new walking and cycling route. Trafford is really leading the way in giving its residents more sustainable travel choices.
"The Bridgewater Way makes it easier for people to do more short local journeys on foot or by bike to reach local shops, schools and amenities whilst keeping away from the busy roads in the area. It is the second of nearly 80 new schemes to be completed across the UK and provides a great waterside environment which we know will be enjoyed by everyone in the coming years."
