STUDENTS have been exploring the idea of launching a waterbus on the Lancaster Canal.
Waterbuses are popular attractions on the canals of Venice and Copenhagen and, closer to home, on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.
With the Carnforth Market Town Initiative getting established, British Waterways decided it would be a good idea to have a water-based tourist attraction in the area. Students from Lancaster University's business school were asked to explore the feasibility of a waterbus running on the Lancaster Canal, between Tewitfield and Lancaster. The bus would have its own stops and timetable, would link with other forms of public transport, and be moored up at Carnforth at night.
British Waterways marketing manager Claire Chapman stressed the project was in its very early stages, and was not yet definite. She said the students' findings had been very positive and, although they had concluded the bus would run at a loss, it was hoped the craft could be rented out to pubs, and for parties and evening cruises, to help cover costs.
She said it was now hoped to get another student to put a business plan together and to explore sources of funding for buying the boat.
April 25, 2003 11:00
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