Ever since the 32-mile canal was re-opened in 1991, access by boat has been restricted. During the summer months the locks have been closed to conserve water and save the 60,000 gallons lost to the Wey Navigation every time a boat enters or leaves the canal. Many boaters eager to explore the attractive waterway, and towpath walkers who enjoy seeing them, have been disappointed.
To conserve the water used when Lock 1 at Woodham is operated, a plan has been initiated to pump it back up the Woodham flight of six locks to replenish the Woking length of the canal. By re-cycling the water, boats will be able to access the canal throughout the year and cruise at least as far as Woking.
The sight of boats regularly cruising along the canal will bring Woking's waterway alive, giving it a renewed sense of purpose and bring more visitors to the town.
The Heritage Lottery Fund granted £295,000 towards the £476,000 cost of the back pumping scheme. The Basingstoke Canal Authority (BCA), Surrey County Council (SCC), and Guildford, Runnymede and Woking Councils and the Surrey and Hampshire Canal Society (SHCS) have pledged to contribute the balance of £181,000. The aim is to have the project completed by Easter 2001.
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