Visit to Foxton Locks by Emma McClarkin MEP highlights two-year restoration target.

The restoration dream of the Foxton Locks Inclined Plane Trust took a step closer to reality recently, when enthusiasts managed to secure the backing of East Midlands MEP Emma McClarkin, along with two local MPs.

The Trust is preparing a bid to help complete the project, and were delighted when the three local politicians visited the site to lend support, and advise on the application.

Emma McClarkin MEP was joined by Edward Garnier, MP for Harborough, and Andrew Robathan, MP for South Leicestershire, to learn more about the progress. About a quarter of the work has now been completed, partly with the aid of Lottery funding.

Steve Bowyer, Chairman of the Trust, said:

“We have two years to get the final phase of restoration underway or risk losing the opportunity forever. But we need more volunteers to support our work and to make a formal application to the Heritage Lottery Fund.”

The Trust’s Foxton Canal Museum currently draws over 300,000 visitors annually, and restoration would increase the tourist potential for the site. One big practical benefit of restoration would be a major reduction in water use of the GU Leicester Line summit, while it would also reduce the notorious hold-ups in busy periods.