THE £11.5 million regeneration project aimed at improving Droitwich's canals has been given the go ahead by Wychavon District Council.

Members discussed the issue at an executive board meeting last Tuesday and agreed the project should proceed and gave it their backing.

The decision means British Waterways can now tap into funding made available by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Advantage West Midlands once a number of contracts have been signed.

The work will see a 21-mile ring linking the Worcester and Birmingham Canal with the River Severn.

Plans also include the regeneration of Droitwich town centre's waterfront area, new locks and a better habitat for wildlife.

Director of the Canals Trust in Droitwich Spa, CouncillorPam Davey (Con-Droit South) said: "This work should make the canals accessible to all as well as disabled people. It will put them in a proper condition and allow them to be navigated.

"It will create a ring that will bring in tourists to the area. It is great news."

The project took a big step forward after council officers were given the authority to deal with any matters essential to progress with the proposal.

Other recommendations were also agreed meaning the managing director and head of corporate projects at the council will have the power to sign contracts with the Heritage Lottery Fund and Advantage West Midlands, as well as any other agreements needed with British Waterways.

Cllr Davey added: "This highlights the commitment on behalf of the council.

"They have been working in partnership with other agencies over a long period of time and at last this has paid off."

A Wychavon District Council spokesman said: "We have agreed in principle for the project to move forward."