Horse is named as mane reason behind marina marvel (From Warrington Guardian)

Horse is named as mane reason behind marina marvel

A COMMUNITY project designed to improve Nantwich's canalside has reached the finals of a prestigious national waterways regeneration award.

The Nantwich Horse sculpture and Arts along the Canal project unveiled last year has been shortlisted for the British Urban Regeneration Association's Waterways Renaissance Awards 2006.

Judges from The Waterways Trust were impressed by the extent of community involvement in enhancing the area and the success of the project in raising the profile of the canal as well as improving access for residents, boaters, visitors and anglers.

They noted: "The towpath is now well-used by local children en-route to school, disabled access has (been) much-improved and the embankment has been landscaped.

"As well as visually enhancing the towpath, the community-led artwork and sculptures help to raise awareness of the canal.

"There is continued involvement of local community groups who appreciate the access improvements and this scheme has acted as a catalyst for further projects."

The scheme, which also features five signature sculptures along the Nantwich Marina towpath, was a successful collaboration by British Waterways, Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council, Malbank School and Arts Council England.

It was unveiled in June 2005 by borough mayor Cllr Maureen Grant, who said: "It's a wonderful achievement for everyone involved in this unique project.

"What makes it so special is the amount of community involvement and the fact that the horse is made entirely from recycled lock gates, hinges and bolts - he's a beautiful addition to the Nantwich landscape."

Around 120 projects entered, and Nantwich is one of only five shortlisted.

The embankment project faces competition for the waterways award from a bridge connecting two communities in Doncaster and a community garden alongside a canal in Milton Keynes.

The winners of the Community Award category will be announced at a ceremony in London's Madame Tussauds by TV personality John Craven on March 22.