In its 2002/03 annual report published on 10 July, British Waterways’ (BW) new chief executive, Robin Evans, has outlined the organisation’s vision for the future of its 2000 mile network of canals and rivers.

Evans said: "Our aim now is to double the number of visitors to our waterways in ten years. The past decade has seen a massive programme of investment and waterway regeneration.

“Now we need to invest in new consumer businesses and improve the waterways further so that they are ever more attractive and desirable to visitors and consumers."

In 2002/03, BW’s trading income rose by 20 per cent to a record £81.7m, all profits from its commercial activities being reinvested into the network. The waterways have benefited from investment of £237m over the past ten years – from the National Lottery, grants and commercial partnerships – and are now in a "vastly improved condition" following a huge programme of restoration and regeneration.

A total of 220 miles of waterway have been reopened or built and the end of 2004 has been identified as the target for the elimination of a backlog of safety-related maintenance.

Other improvements have seen investment in new moorings and other boating facilities, the upgrading of towpaths, access and security and the creation of new visitor centres at major attractions such as the Anderton Boat Lift, Standedge Tunnel and the Falkirk Wheel.

BW has also launched waterscape.com, an online method by which visitors can discover the best of the UK’s waterside attractions, events and activities.

Evans continued: "The more people who enjoy the waterways for holidays and recreation – the waterside restaurants, pubs, holiday hire boats, canalside cottages, marinas, cycling, walking and angling – the more income we can generate for reinvestment.

“It’s a virtuous circle – the more we can improve the waterways, the more people will be attracted to visit."

BW navigations are visited over 160 million times each year by 10 million people, who spend about £1.5bn annually. The organisation estimates that waterway restoration has acted as a catalyst for £2bn of regeneration investment. Details: www.britishwaterways.co.uk