VISITORS to the Grand Western Canal Country Park can now benefit from a range of new facilities to help them make the most of a trip to this charming waterway in mid-Devon. The canal visitor centre now features two new video display screens, each playing a choice of several short film clips, including some spectacular bird’s eye drone footage of the canal basin and horse-drawn barge.
Along the towpath, all 10 existing noticeboards are being replaced with tougher and smarter models, with a further two noticeboards added in new locations. Seven of these new noticeboards are already in place, while the remaining five are on order and are due to be installed in the summer. Within each noticeboard is a newly developed A2-sized information panel, each one packed with fascinating stories and images relating to the canal’s history, wildlife and management in the area near their location. They will also house maps, posters promoting canal events, information about recreational activities that can be enjoyed within the country park and health and safety guidance.
The Inland Waterways Association (IWA) has provided £18,000 from its South West Inland Waterways Regeneration Fund to fund the purchase, wiring and installation of the new video screens, the design and production of the 12 information panels and the purchase of five new noticeboards. Mid Devon District Council, through its Shared Prosperity Fund, has provided £10,000 for the purchase of the five noticeboards currently on order.
Coun Andrea Davis, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: “These new displays and noticeboards add even more to the experience of visitors to the country park and the visitor centre. The Grand Western Canal has a rich history which people will be able to explore and find out more about. We’re extremely grateful for the funding from The Inland Waterways Association and Mid Devon District Council that has made these improvements possible.”
