A RIFT over the canal side restoration project in Droitwich intensified today, when Wych-avon District Council hit back at claims its plans "lack vision".

Jon Axe, Droitwich Canals Trust director, accused the council of "selling off the family silver", and said its consultation document for the scheme showed little imagination.

Mr Axe also slated the £9m plans for "not creating the right ambience".

But the council has expressed its concerns over the comments, which it sees as worrying because the Trust is one of the partners in the project.

"I'm very surprised at the comments that the canal side restoration will not attract visitors," said the council's head of planning, Jack Hegarty.

"You don't have to go very far to see the type of investment other such projects have attracted - Brindleyplace in Birmingham is a prime example of the vitality such a development can bring to what was a run-down canal front.

"The proposals for Droitwich Spa will benefit everybody from residents to tourists alike.

"I'm sure a vibrant selection of leisure opportunities is preferable to the redundant basin as it currently stands.

"The plans have been put out for public viewing and I hope residents will take the time to look at these and make up their own minds."

A number of groups and organisations, including the Canals Trust, were also invited to comment on the proposals.

Trust chairman Margaret Rowley commented: "Mr Axe's comments do not reflect the formal position of the Canals Trust which, of course, has been a key partner all along in the initiative.

"We have made some proposals to improve the plans but are fully supportive of the restoration project."

Comments on the plans should be sent to the council by Monday, August 11. The proposals can be viewed at the Droitwich One Stop Shop or at www.wychavon.gov.uk