Cyclists enjoying canal path access

Droitwich Spa cyclists and British Waterways volunteers test a newly-widened towpath entrance with Waitrose cycle shopping trailer. (s)

SPA cyclists can now enjoy the town’s historic canals thanks to improvements to the towpath entrance on the Junction Canal.

British Waterways volunteers, with the support of Wychavon District and Worcestershire County Council, have begun work to widen some of the entrances to the Junction Canal to make cycling easier for bikes with children’s seats or trailers.

The work also coincides with a recent decision by Waitrose to launch a free cycle shopping trailer scheme which enables

anyone to borrow a cycle trailer.

This is then attached to their bike to allow customers to get their shopping home.

Droitwich cyclist Jim Maybury tested the cycle trailer and said: “The gate widening is a big improvement enabling cyclists to

use child seats and bike-hods and will improve access for people with disabilities.”

Andy Pitt from Wychavon District Council said: “Cycling benefits people and the community by improving personal fitness and reducing pollution.

“The Hanbury Road towpath link improvements will make it easier for visitors to the new marina to shop in Droitwich and also bring the vision of a near traffic free 21 mile Mid Worcester Cycle Ring a little bit closer,” he added.

Andrew Cartwright, Waitrose branch manager, said: “Our free cycle shopping trolley scheme is not just about promoting Waitrose, it’s about making it easier for people to shop in Droitwich whilst doing their bit for the environment.”

Other improvements are also planned for Junction Canal, where cyclists currently have to come off the towpath to negotiate a busy main road.

The plans will create a cycle path so cyclists can avoid the busy road which council chiefs hope will make the route safer and more appealing to all.

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