BCS aims to promote the restoration of the Buckingham and Old Stratford Arms of the Grand Union Canal to navigable order and to maintain and improve them for the public benefit; to promote use of the canal by all forms of water-related activities including: local amenity, tourist and recreational activity; to promote education of the public in the history and use of canals and the Buckingham and Old Stratford Arms in particular.
Why the community needs usA restored canal would provide an excellent destination for boaters, walkers and others in the historic town of Buckingham.
The canal and its heritage will be a significant tourist attraction for the area. In the long term a restored canal will create opportunities for economic growth including job creation during construction and tourism. The canal corridor will bring much needed green infrastructure to the area and provide leisure opportunities such as walking, fishing, boating and wildlife.
Our impact on the communityAchievements to date include the restoration of a stone bridge at Little Hill Farm, Wicken; restoration of the lock at Hyde Lane, within the nature reserve; obtained planning permission for the re-watering of the length of canal at Bourton Meadow on the outskirts of Buckingham; restored a degraded hedge along the full length of the nature reserve using traditional techniques; entered into partnering agreements with all major local authorities along the route.
We always have opportunities for volunteers to take part. We run work parties on alternate Thursdays and on the second Sunday of each month, from 10am-3pm, on four separate sites. Our volunteers come from all walks of life and there will always be something to suit everyone, whatever their level of expertise, from grass cutting to bricklaying and stone masonry. Further details from info@buckinghamcanal.org.uk or 01908 661217
