GREEN Party Coun Karen Lewing and community campaigner Alex Mace have been elected as co-chairs of Worcester Canal Group.
The group was created in 2014 by local residents who wanted ‘to enhance the amenity value of the canal for the benefit of the local community and visitors.’
Both are looking to start off strong, with Alex already highlighting damage which has appeared on one of the canal’s bridges. The damage has been reported to local heritage officers at the city council and the Canal and River Trust and both Coun Lewing and Mr Mace said they hoped repairs would be carried out soon.
“I would like to thank the previous chair, Joy Squires, for her ten years of service,” said Coun Lewing.
“I am looking forward to building on the improvements which have already been made, including my recent city councillor funding to the group for new litter pickers for the regular Saturday litter pick led by Coun Matthew Jenkins.
“We’ll continue to enhance the canal’s character, appearance, heritage and landscape value whilst providing opportunities for sustainable transport, enhancing its biodiversity and creating wildlife habitats.
“I am really looking forward to working with Alex and the rest of the committee and building more support within the local community to help deliver these ambitions.”
Alex added: “The Worcester and Birmingham Canal is a vital heritage asset to the city, providing a beautiful walking and cycle route into town away from cars, supporting local wildlife and biodiversity, and bringing tourists to our city throughout much of the year.
“As I live alongside the canal on Gregorys Bank, I can often be found somewhere on the towpath.
“I look forward to working with Karen, the rest of the committee and all local members to improve the canal for all.”
