We consider that PO11 could reasonably include specific reference to the canal network as part of the final paragraph which encourages appropriate regeneration of the historic environment, given the range of roles the network can play in contributing towards the regeneration of urban areas and supporting both urban and rural economies. An explicit reference to the canal network would help demonstrate the positive strategy for conserving and enjoying the historic environment advocated by the NPPF; specifically, paragraph 126 of the NPPF states that LPAs should take into account the following:

"the desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets and putting them to viable uses consistent with their conservation; the wider social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits that conservation of the historic environment can bring; the desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness; and opportunities to draw on the contribution made by the historic environment to the character of a place".

The active encouragement of appropriate development associated with and supporting the canal network can help to realise the potential of the network as a valuable multi-functional asset, at the same time as increasing general accessibility to it as a historic asset which makes a significant contribution towards the character of the places it passes through. The Trust therefore considers that appropriate development can enhance the character of the canals as a historic asset and that this should be acknowledged within the Preferred Option.