AN ICONIC Evesham landmark could get given a new lease of life if residents support a push for funding.
The former lock-keeper's house, which sits on stilts over the River Avon, has been the subject of many renovation attempts since flood damage rendered it unusable.
Now the Avon Navigation Trust (ANT) aims to bring boat hire back to the park alongside an outdoor education area, nature trail, paddle sport tuition and boat handling courses for all ages.
Evesham Town Council has endorsed The Evesham Lock House Volunteer Activity Centre scheme, which it has put forward for funding from Wychavon District Council’s Community Legacy Grant scheme.
“We will be in competition with other projects across Wychavon and the more feedback we get from the public, the greater our case will be,” said Evesham mayor Councillor Sue Amor.
“The scheme ticks a lot of the items on the Town Plan wish list, making more use of our river, providing health and wellbeing benefits for all ages and improving the local economy by attracting visitors as well as protecting a landmark building.”
Councillor Mark Goodge, chairman of the town council’s New Homes Bonus Working Group, added: “Everyone on the panel agreed that this project, one of the best to come through the system since I started, has real potential to make a big difference.
“My kids are already excited about being able to hire small boats and paddleboards on summer days.”
Constructed in 1972 for £8,000, the cottage was damaged and rendered unusable by two floods.
“Renovating and repurposing the house as our centre for adult volunteering and the ANT youth squad will open up wide opportunities for people to learn new skills and make a big difference,” said ANT chief executive Clive Matthews.
“Using it as the Evesham base for paddlesports and small boat activity will also gift a new generation with the chance to enjoy the river and become involved with looking after our lovely waterway.
“To help make this vision a reality and add this great facility to the town, please visit the website and complete the short survey questions.”
Residents can leave feedback by visiting https://eveshamlock.uk
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