British Waterways has announced that the restoration of an 18th century wharf on the Grantham Canal in the East Midlands has reached completion.

Grantham Canal Society, which financially contributed towards the project, now aims to operate a trip boat on the canal between Harlaxton and Woolsthorpe to enable visitors to experience the historic waterway, which has not been navigable for boats since 1937.

A landscaped community space to make the wharf accessible to the public will also be completed by this autumn if planning is approved.

Peter Stone, secretary of the Grantham Canal Partnership, said: "The response of the public to the Grantham on Water festival in 2007 was fantastic - with 800 visitors grabbing the chance to take their first ever boat trip along the canal.

"Ever since, we've been keen to reopen these four miles to visiting boaters and to introduce a trip boat for use for school parties, family picnics and other outings. Reopening Harlaxton Wharf will go a long way to making this vision a reality."

Acting general manager of British Waterways, Sean McGinley, added: "We're grateful to all the partners involved in the restoration of the wharf. This project could help to create a real focal point for visitors, enabling them to further explore Grantham Canal's wildlife, heritage and excellent village pubs."

The Waste Recycling Environmental Network (WREN) and East Midlands Development Agency (emda) also helped fund the improvements.