NEW Government cash has fuelled hopes of restoring Manchester Bolton Bury Canal.

The Government is putting in £24 million over three years so that British Waterways can tackle a huge backlog of repairs on the nation's 2,000 miles of canals and waterways.

Local MP David Chaytor said this could ultimately mean good news for local campaigners.

He met members of the Manchester Bolton Bury Canal Society who are keen to work with British Waterways to restore the derelict canal.

"Money from British Waterways has already been used to restore two bridges over the old canal, including Bank Top Bridge in Bury," said Mr Chaytor. "The new investment and the new emphasis on partnerships could give a real boost to further restoration plans."

Mr Chaytor described Britain's waterways as a great national asset which had been starved of investment.

"Canals can help transfer water to areas of drought. They also have the potential to take a lot of freight transport off the roads. In the Bury and Bolton area, the restoration of the old canal could also bring exciting new tourism and leisure opportunities."

He added: "Canals have for too long been a neglected part of our heritage. I am delighted that the Government has taken the first steps to change things for the better."

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