The Fens Waterways Link is the biggest waterway enhancement scheme in Europe. Find out how this project will help people and wildlife.
What is the Fens Waterways Link?
The Fens Waterways Link is one of the most significant waterway developments in two centuries. It will connect the Cathedral Cities of the East of England and open up 240km of interconnected waterway, including 80km of new waterway and increased access to 160km.
Working with other waterway regeneration schemes, the Link will create a number of new circular routes for regional boating as well as wider opportunities for recreation, tourism and the environment. The new waterway will be sympathetic to the character and history of the Fens and sensitively linked with the water environment, promoting a better quality of life. It will put the Fens on the map as a nationally recognised destination, as well known as the Norfolk Broads.
As a flagship project of the Environment Agency and Lincolnshire Waterways Partnership, the Link will help achieve our ambition to make each waterway the best it can be, creating a better environment and better quality of life for local people.
Benefits of the Fens Waterways Link
The Fens Waterways Link will:
- Create opportunities for increased leisure, tourism and regeneration, attracting economic development and employment
- Develop a unique image of the Fens waterways as a world-class tourist destination, a place for healthy activity in the great outdoors, and a place to escape
- Open access to the rich heritage, culture and history of the Fens
- Benefit the natural environment, linking major wetland sites, creating new habitats and supporting the future of unique fenland wildlife
- Help improve water supplies and flood defences by improving water storage, transfer and drainage
- Provide a regional water-based transport corridor for people and freight
- Give local people a sense of ownership of their local waterways - a place of belonging with rich opportunities for recreation, enjoyment and healthy activities
- Promote waterways as a venue for learning, training and skills development, providing opportunities for people of all ages to engage with their environment
- Enable visitors, businesses and other community members to become champions for the waterways at the heart of local communities.
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