Plans to introduce a trip boat at Llanymynech are beginning to take shape.

. This is a joint effort by many, including support from local community groups and funding from British Waterways.

The intention is to borrow or acquire a heritage boat, possibly one from the British Waterways working f leet, that can be used for trips along a 500 metre length of canal in Shropshire.

It is hoped that some action in the dry and unnavigable section will stimulate interest and be a further small step towards the restoration of the "missing link".

The estimated project cost is £122,00, which includes:

1. Major rebuilding of the wharf outside the new stable block.

2. Repairs to the remaining length (320 metres in total, including the two arms).

3. Construction of a winding hole in the field to the north, at the current dam.

4. Repairs to the channel, in order to raise the water level by about a foot,

back to its original level.

The state of the restored 11 ½ mile section centred around Welshpool containing 11 locks , although navigable, is deteriorating due to insufficient use by boats as the section is still isolated from the main network. The section provides an enjoyable 3 to 4 days cruising and access slipways are available at Welshpool and The Wern. ( Details available from B.W.’s Burgedin Office Tel: 01938 590079 ). If you have a Trailboat or other craft then PLEASE HELP by using this section to prevent further deterioration.

A grant of £4,000 to Powys County Council has been announced by the I.W.A. towards a feasability study into extending the canal from Freestone Lock to its original destination of Newtown. This extension has the strong support of Newtown Council and other organisations including the M.W.R.T. , B.W., Newtown Partnership and the Welsh Development Agency.