The Wey & Arun Canal Trust has announced that it will reluctantly place the Tickner’s Crossing Project on hold after tender costs for the construction of a new road bridge came in much higher than expected, due in large part to recent substantial increases in construction materials costs.
The project at Tickner’s Heath between Cranleigh and Dunsfold aims to create a new crossing as the route of the canal is currently blocked by a causeway on the Dunsfold Road.
The Trust’s board has concluded that it cannot proceed with the project at this time, as the costs would exceed the organisation’s available cash and reserves of £0.9 million. Moving ahead would also put other projects at risk and deplete the property fund, limiting the Trust’s ability to respond quickly to future land acquisition opportunities.
A major factor in initiating the Tickner's Crossing project was the continuity it would provide with the Dunsfold Park development of new housing and a country park including a 2km restored section of canal immediately to the north of the planned crossing. However, that development has not progressed so the canal remains within the aerodrome site and is not yet open for public access. It is currently unclear when it will be possible to run boats along this section.
The Trust will contact members who had kindly indicated that they would be willing to loan money for the Surrey County Council bond, as these loans will no longer be required at this time.
While the decision is disappointing, the Trust will now focus on other projects within its three-year plan where progress can be made. Phase 2 of Rooks Hill has started, and plans and funding requests are being developed for Phase 3. Work is also underway on a revised Rushetts scheme to extend south from Rooks Hill.
At Tickner’s Crossing, the completed footbridge and bridleway route will remain in readiness for future completion of the project. The Trust will clear and tidy the rest of the site and temporary road, restoring the area to a green space.
The Trust recognises that this is a major disappointment and wishes to acknowledge the considerable work contributed by volunteers over the past few years.
Restoring the full 23 miles of the Wey & Arun Canal is and continues to be a complex and challenging task, and over more than 50 years the project has faced a number of setbacks, but has been successful in overcoming many obstacles and challenges. The Trust intends to revisit the Tickner’s Crossing Project in the coming years and will continue working to acquire new sections of canal so that restoration work can continue.