restoration
Chapter 3 describes how the navigation declined commercially although it was still actively used above Struncheon Hill Lock for pleasure craft, notably by 2 sailing clubs. In 1959 when Hull Corporation proposed to extract water from the canal (via the new pumping station at Tophill Low) at a cost of £200,000, a repair of all the lock gates to restore through navigation (a further £17,000) was rejected.
Despite opposition from the inland Waterways Association the acting clerk of the Driffield Navigation agreed, in 1964 to the East Riding County Council's proposals to replace Wansford Bridge by a low fixed structure. Without the sanction of a quorum of Commissioners his action was of very doubtful legality but construction of the bridge sealed off the upper reaches of the Navigation to through traffic.
When Hempholme swing bridge became inoperable in 1968 a Brigham Sailing Club member, Mr H.A. Taylor called a meeting of interested parties which led to the formation of the Driffield Navigation Amenities Association with a prime objective to re-establish a corporate body responsible for the Driffield Navigation. In addition to boat owners DNAA catered for all recreational interests; anglers, landowners, ramblers and the IWA were among the early membership.
Incorporation of the Driffield Navigation as a charitable trust was endorsed by Act of Parliament in 1817. Therefore following the registration of DNAA as a charity in 1974, the Charity Commissioners were able to consider and appoint 15 Trustees in 1978, under the terms of the original Acts.
The work of restoration was not completed merely by the appoinntment of new Commissioners; it was only just the beginning. DNAA had repaired Bethel's swing bridge but other remedial work remained before positive progress could be made, in particular the replacement of the lower gates at Struncheon Hill Lock. Remedial work was undertaken largely by DNAA who have directed much effort and resources into practical restoration. It is entirely through their efforts, first to establish Commissioners, that the canal remains open today. DNAA remains as a support group funded entirely by donation.