A bold initiative aims to make the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath more accessible.

The 'Reimagining the Kennet & Avon' programme, developed by a partnership including West Berkshire Council, the Greenham Trust, the Canal and River Trust, and Sustrans, was unveiled at a meeting on September 30.

The initiative seeks to deliver six projects to improve access to the towpath across the district.

The aim is to ensure that everyone can enjoy the waterside environment.

Stakeholders were shown a recently upgraded, accessible section of the towpath and were invited to participate in the programme’s evolution and delivery.

The partners have already delivered several improvements, including 1.7km of upgraded towpath between Victoria Park and Ham Bridge, Newbury, and 2.4km of widened, resurfaced towpath between Aldermaston Wharf and Ufton Lane.

The partnership is now seeking funding for further improvements along the waterside corridor.

Sustrans regional director for England South, Sarah Leeming, said: "Sustrans National Cycle Network Route 4 runs along the Kennet & Avon Canal, providing an attractive, tranquil stretch of network along the water’s edge.

"Over the last few years, Sustrans has been able to improve some sections of the towpath, but many further enhancements are needed to help create a safer and more enjoyable route for everyone, all year round.

"Sustrans is excited to be working in partnership with the Greenham Trust, Canal & River Trust, and others to raise funding for future schemes to safeguard this important blue-green ribbon running through West Berkshire."

Councillor Stuart Gourley, West Berkshire Council’s executive member for the environment, said: "The Kennet & Avon Canal runs through West Berkshire and plays a part in uniting communities along its path.

"It is an important feature for many of our residents and provides sustainable access for leisure and work.

"Transforming the canal is essential to our future infrastructure network and West Berkshire Council wants to ensure it remains so for many years to come."

Chris Boulton, CEO at Greenham Trust, said: "We’re very proud to support the 'Reimagining The Canalside' project, which has the potential to transform this historic space for the entire community.

"By enhancing the towpath and surrounding areas, we’re not only creating a lasting environmental legacy but also providing health and wellbeing benefits for all who use it."

Key considerations include the sensitivity of the waterside environment and ecology, making the towpath more robust, opportunities to reduce flooding risks, and ways to boost the economic vitality of towns and villages along the route.