driffield navigation guide

The Driffield Navigation Trust's current priority is to restore navigation to the full length of the canal.

In addition to this we also need to consider:

1. Improve facilities for Leisure use on, or by, the Canal: Other uses of the Canal and its pathways such as boating, canoeing, and fishing are to be encouraged although effort will be made to ensure control by the preparation and display of bylaws. The encouragement of walking and cycling must take account of those rights of way which can be proven.
2. Examine the potential for Commercial use: The last commercial use for carriage of goods by boat was in 1948 but the Canal's current users include a commercial passenger carrier. There may be some potential for use of the Canal for commercial carriage if the Canal was fully navigable to Hull and the River Humber - a study should be undertaken, possibly involving the East Yorkshire Chamber of Trade and Commerce and The Inland Shipping Group of the Inland Waterways Association.
3. Develop the potential of the Canal as a tourist attraction: This aspect needs detailed study to ensure that our activities fit in with the local authority's plans. It is important that we link our efforts with the activity of other local organisations, preferably organisations already involved in tourism development.
4. Bylaws: A key element is to create a set of Bylaws to govern all aspects which come under the jurisdiction of the Commissioners.
5. Educational material: It is fundamental to ensure a wider knowledge of the important part which has been played by the Canal in the history of Driffield and of the area. The growing use of the Canal as a historical and ecological educational tool is to be encouraged. For this liaison with local schools is essential. We have been promised input and assistance from Driffield School and from Hull University on projects such as a Teachers Pack, information leaflets etc.
6. Protection of our heritage: The responsibilities, costs and complications of caring for protected Listed Structures on the Canal need to be explored.
7. Access for the disabled: We will continue to seek ways to improve access for the disabled to key sites on the Canal:
8. Protection of the environment: We are developing a policy relating to the environment working closely with the Environment Agency, English Nature, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and other relevant local organisations.
9. Employment: Our long term activities should lead to a modest level of job creation - we envisage direct employment of a full time Ranger and two part time employees within 5 years.