Parliamentary Debates and Santa!
Recently a debate was held in Parliament on the threat to Britain's inland waterways posed by Government funding cutbacks. I took part in the debate so that I could highlight the fantastic job that has been achieved by local volunteers in Chesterfield. They have turned Chesterfield Canal from a stagnant ditch in 1979 (when I first lived at Tapton), into the thriving canal of today with working narrow boat and well used by walkers, cyclists, fishermen and birdwatchers. A linear green lung as I described it in Parliament.
I pointed out to parliament that the canal is not 'only' valuable because it enhances the quality of life for local residents. Already it is attracting money spending visitors to Chesterfield, as I saw when reading the visitors book recommendations at the thriving (and state of the art 'green technology'), Caravan Club site which opened on Borough Council land at Poolsbrook Country Park last spring.
With work having recently begun on excavating the nineteenth century canal basin at the old Lavers site the redevelopment enters an even more exciting phase. The new 'marina' or canal terminal will form the centrepiece of the massive private sector Waterside development. Over the next few years this will bring jobs, offices and houses into a currently derelict area.
The dedicated volunteers and canal enthusiasts who began this process 30 years ago probably never dared imagine they would reach such heights. With a new canal basin at the Chesterfield end and a realisable target for linking the whole canal back into the national network at the other.
Few in Chesterfield would ever have seen the project as something that would eventually help create jobs and contribute to revitalising the area after the loss of the pits and much of the traditional engineering industries. As with market festivals, Lantern parades and Christmas lights some short sighted politicians believe you can attract tourists and shoppers into Chesterfield without actually investing any money to give them a reason to come!
Where does Santa fit in with all this? Well on Saturday 22nd November I had the great pleasure of attending the 'launch' of the Canal Santa special trips -as I do most years. These are a great experience for children (and adults!) who not only get to meet Santa but enjoy a trip on the canal too. At a bargain price they help raise significant funds for the Canal Society too. Last years trips were 96% full so get in touch now to book a place for your family -on 01246 551035.
Paul Holmes MP for Chesterfield.