A STATE of the art 300 berth marina is hoping to boost canal boat tourism in Cheshire.
Work on the multi-million-pound marina will get under way ‘as soon as possible’, after two years of planning.
The 11-hectare plot on the Bolesworth Estate at Tattenhall, next to the Shropshire Union Canal, is a joint development by Bolesworth Estate and GJP Marina Developments Ltd.
Matthew Morris, Bolesworth land agent, said: “It’s a fantastic development for the estate. It’s another example of us branching out into the leisure sector but, at the same time, it’s supporting all the existing businesses on the estate, like the ice cream farm, shops and pubs.
Mr Morris said it is something that former Bolesworth managing director Anthony Barbour – who died in October – would have been proud of.
“It’s a shame he didn’t see the decision being taken, added Mr Morris.
The marina, which will be the size of 13 football pitches, is to be built on two fields next to the Shropshire Union Canal in Tattenhall, next to the Ice Cream Farm.
Chester City Council planners passed the proposal, which is for a 300 narrowboat marina, a boat workshop and a car park.
An office and lounge are on hold as planners agreed to the need for such a building but rejected the facility put forward in the application.
Plans to have hire boats and about 30 permanent moorings have also been scrapped.
Mr Morris said: “Work will begin as soon as possible in the new year. The weather will be a critical factor along with the various wildlife issues, but we are hoping to have it open towards the end of the summer.”
All the equipment will be kept on site to minimise the impact on the roads and the Tattenhall community.
