A POPULAR spot for villagers and dog-walkers could be set for a £20,000 transformation.

The former waterway at Shrivenham Canal Park is the subject of a biodiversity plan, produced by the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust.

And if it comes to fruition, the four-acre site on Stainswick Lane will see the addition of a woodland sanctuary, meadows, hedging and an information zone. There is also a longer-term ambition to re-water 600 metres of the old line.

Chairman of the West Vale branch of the Trust Graham Banks believes the project could require £10- £20,000 worth of fundraising and could take two to three years to fully complete.

He said: “People are sometimes surprised to learn there was once a thriving waterway on their doorstep, but you can still see some of the evidence today.

“Much of the route remains visible in the local countryside, and Station Road Bridge carries traffic over a stretch which is often full of water.

“Over the last few years our volunteers have cleared and dredged several lengths and rebuilt the bridge which carries Steppingstone Lane bridleway over the canal, as well as opening up hundreds of metres of towpath, but we’re ready to do more.

“We want to establish a community and environmental asset for people of all ages while we continue working towards full restoration.”

“We want to establish a community and environmental asset for people of all ages while we continue working towards full restoration."

The biodiversity plan includes a woodland sanctuary with birdboxes and batboxes, a meadow with grasses and flowers for pollinators, an information zone with noticeboards, plus grass walkways and natural fencing.

Graham added: “We are very grateful to everyone who has already supported the initial phases, but we’re keen to engage with as many people as possible.

“There are opportunities for businesses to take part in team challenges where staff join our work parties for the day, or you can arrange your own fundraising events.

“Donations are very welcome and will help to pay for materials and expert help."

Work parties have already started clearing the towpath, laying new paths and creating habitat piles.

And although the project requires the backing of businesses and members of the public, Graham is hopeful the funds can be raised.

He added: “Obviously, the biodiversity aspects will be ongoing because we want to improve that countryside and having the water in the canal will help that.

“It’s a lot of funding but the fact that we have these plans shows that there is a project behind the fundraising.

“Working together, we can breathe new life into this former waterway and create a lasting legacy for future generations.”

The aim of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is to restore the waterway from the Kennet & Avon Canal near Melksham to the Thames & Severn Canal near Cricklade and the River Thames near Abingdon, connecting Chippenham, Calne, Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon.

For further information on how to get involved, call Graham on 07541 211256 or email graham.banks@wbct.org.uk