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No one takes up offer of canal trip
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| Roy Cartwright, chairman of the canal trust, who said nobody had booked to go on the trip to see the Birmingham canal |
AN offer of a free trip to Birmingham for objectors to the Swindon canal project has sunk without a trace.
In April the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust offered a coach trip to see part of the Birmingham canal system as a way of getting their message across to the doubters of the Swindon scheme.
But three weeks after the offer was extended not a single response has been received.
Roy Cartwright, chairman of the Swindon branch of the trust, said: "This is a great disappointment to the trust as we would have liked to show the doubters what has been achieved with urban canals and waterways elsewhere.
"These canals provide enjoyment for all - including tourists, walkers, fishermen, cyclists, and of course canal boaters who contrary to popular belief only make up about three per cent of the members of the public who use canals.
"One lady who wrote to the paper did come into the shop and explain that she had no desire to travel to a canal with us as she had already seen them and still did not want it for Swindon.
"We can all respect the lady's views as we all have our own ideas on what is best for Swindon.
"Therefore we will now be withdrawing our offer of a free trip for dissenters of the canal as our bus would be empty."
A number of supporters of the canal project did express an interest in paying to go on the trip, so an outing may be arranged in the future.
Roy hopes to take councillors and members of the business community along for the ride.
Critics of the £52m canal project fear it will quickly fill with rubbish and attract drunken yobs.
There are also concerns that it will add to potential traffic problems created by the town centre regeneration.
The scheme's supporters counter with the view that it will create £8m a year in tourism revenue.
They also say that it could help change the often negative impression the rest of the country has of Swindon.
At a council meeting in April it was agreed that the council would investigate the scheme in more detail.
The findings will then form the basis of a public poll on the canal.
Anyone interested in going on a future canal trip should sign up at the trust's shop at 1 Theatre Square, opposite the new central library, on Friday or Saturday between 10am and 4pm.
For more information on the trust go to www.wbct.org.uk.
1:22pm Thursday 15th May 2008
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CommentPosted by: yeti, swindon on 2:19pm Thu 15 May 08
are the birmingham canals long existing?
the swindon one would have to be created from scratch.
birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go.
the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.
are the birmingham canals long existing?
the swindon one would have to be created from scratch.
birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go.
the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.
Posted by: john c, swindon on 2:22pm Thu 15 May 08
Many of us can not get the time off from work to go to the shop on a Friday let alone a whole day for a trip to Birmingham.
Many of us can not get the time off from work to go to the shop on a Friday let alone a whole day for a trip to Birmingham.
Posted by: Grimaldi, The Big Top on 2:28pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]yeti[/bold] wrote:
are the birmingham canals long existing? the swindon one would have to be created from scratch. birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go. the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.[/quote] Yeti - Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.
yeti wrote:
are the birmingham canals long existing? the swindon one would have to be created from scratch. birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go. the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.
Yeti - Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.
Posted by: potluck, swindon on 2:29pm Thu 15 May 08
one good suggestion for those wishing to see a canal be built, and to spend many summers watching people enjoy it. Move to another town and enjoy to your hearts content. we have plenty of fantastic parks in and around swindon that these monies should be spent on, for all the people and not the few who love canals
one good suggestion for those wishing to see a canal be built, and to spend many summers watching people enjoy it. Move to another town and enjoy to your hearts content. we have plenty of fantastic parks in and around swindon that these monies should be spent on, for all the people and not the few who love canals
Posted by: yeti, swindon on 2:33pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Grimaldi[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]yeti[/bold] wrote: are the birmingham canals long existing? the swindon one would have to be created from scratch. birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go. the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.[/quote] Yeti - Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.[/quote] i've been to birmingham loads of times and that is my opinion of the place.
Grimaldi wrote:
yeti wrote: are the birmingham canals long existing? the swindon one would have to be created from scratch. birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go. the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.
Yeti - Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.
i've been to birmingham loads of times and that is my opinion of the place.
Posted by: yeti, swindon on 2:34pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Grimaldi[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]yeti[/bold] wrote: are the birmingham canals long existing? the swindon one would have to be created from scratch. birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go. the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.[/quote] Yeti - Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.[/quote] i've been to birmingham loads of times and that is my opinion of the place.
Grimaldi wrote:
yeti wrote: are the birmingham canals long existing? the swindon one would have to be created from scratch. birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go. the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.
Yeti - Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.
i've been to birmingham loads of times and that is my opinion of the place.
Posted by: fish n nips, Swindon on 2:40pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]potluck[/bold] wrote:
one good suggestion for those wishing to see a canal be built, and to spend many summers watching people enjoy it. Move to another town and enjoy to your hearts content. we have plenty of fantastic parks in and around swindon that these monies should be spent on, for all the people and not the few who love canals[/quote] potluck, canals were in this town long before you and i were around so i suggest if you dont want a canal, why dont you move somewhere where there are lots of nice parks?! or in aother words, any standard town or city. Us Swindonians can then have the canal most residents are looking forward to enjoying.
potluck wrote:
one good suggestion for those wishing to see a canal be built, and to spend many summers watching people enjoy it. Move to another town and enjoy to your hearts content. we have plenty of fantastic parks in and around swindon that these monies should be spent on, for all the people and not the few who love canals
potluck, canals were in this town long before you and i were around so i suggest if you dont want a canal, why dont you move somewhere where there are lots of nice parks?! or in aother words, any standard town or city. Us Swindonians can then have the canal most residents are looking forward to enjoying.
Posted by: Richard, Toothill on 2:43pm Thu 15 May 08
Yeti - you are having me on. Banbury's canalside is pretty bland, just the back wall of a shopping centre and a few bridges. Birmingham's canalside has so much more going for it. Other bits of the city might be a hole - though to be honest, people like us in glasshouses (Swindon) shouldn't throw stones - but not the canalside.
But like I've said before, you should go look at the Huddersfield canal, or the Forth & Clyde, for what happens when you put a canal back in an urban area and do it well. Go look at the Rochdale canal to see how canal works can actually improve road traffic, not worsen it.
Yeti - you are having me on. Banbury's canalside is pretty bland, just the back wall of a shopping centre and a few bridges. Birmingham's canalside has so much more going for it. Other bits of the city might be a hole - though to be honest, people like us in glasshouses (Swindon) shouldn't throw stones - but not the canalside.
But like I've said before, you should go look at the Huddersfield canal, or the Forth & Clyde, for what happens when you put a canal back in an urban area and do it well. Go look at the Rochdale canal to see how canal works can actually improve road traffic, not worsen it.
Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 2:47pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]fish n nips[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]potluck[/bold] wrote: one good suggestion for those wishing to see a canal be built, and to spend many summers watching people enjoy it. Move to another town and enjoy to your hearts content. we have plenty of fantastic parks in and around swindon that these monies should be spent on, for all the people and not the few who love canals[/quote] potluck, canals were in this town long before you and i were around so i suggest if you dont want a canal, why dont you move somewhere where there are lots of nice parks?! or in aother words, any standard town or city. Us Swindonians can then have the canal most residents are looking forward to enjoying. [/quote] Most residents?
fish n nips wrote:
potluck wrote: one good suggestion for those wishing to see a canal be built, and to spend many summers watching people enjoy it. Move to another town and enjoy to your hearts content. we have plenty of fantastic parks in and around swindon that these monies should be spent on, for all the people and not the few who love canals
potluck, canals were in this town long before you and i were around so i suggest if you dont want a canal, why dont you move somewhere where there are lots of nice parks?! or in aother words, any standard town or city. Us Swindonians can then have the canal most residents are looking forward to enjoying.
Most residents?
Posted by: emmylou83, Stratton on 2:54pm Thu 15 May 08
Birmingham has an amazing shopping centre but the place itself was nothing special in my eyes. I still say put in a decent shopping centre and the people will come, not being funny but ,majority of people do not go to the likes of Reading for the canel but for the shopping,
Birmingham has an amazing shopping centre but the place itself was nothing special in my eyes. I still say put in a decent shopping centre and the people will come, not being funny but ,majority of people do not go to the likes of Reading for the canel but for the shopping,
Posted by: Loft Conversions, Swindon on 2:56pm Thu 15 May 08
Most residents I've spoken to are whole-heartedly behind the canal.
It seems that only the usual NIMBYs are against it. And lets face it, these are the same people who object to EVERY new proposal and would like nothing better than for Swindon to remain the functional, mediocre town it currently is.
As a resident of Rodbourne I am very much looking forward to this canal being built. The sooner the better.
Most residents I've spoken to are whole-heartedly behind the canal.
It seems that only the usual NIMBYs are against it. And lets face it, these are the same people who object to EVERY new proposal and would like nothing better than for Swindon to remain the functional, mediocre town it currently is.
As a resident of Rodbourne I am very much looking forward to this canal being built. The sooner the better.
Posted by: Loft Conversions, Swindon on 2:57pm Thu 15 May 08
Most residents I've spoken to are whole-heartedly behind the canal.
It seems that only the usual NIMBYs are against it. And lets face it, these are the same people who object to EVERY new proposal and would like nothing better than for Swindon to remain the functional, mediocre town it currently is.
As a resident of Rodbourne I am very much looking forward to this canal being built. The sooner the better.
Most residents I've spoken to are whole-heartedly behind the canal.
It seems that only the usual NIMBYs are against it. And lets face it, these are the same people who object to EVERY new proposal and would like nothing better than for Swindon to remain the functional, mediocre town it currently is.
As a resident of Rodbourne I am very much looking forward to this canal being built. The sooner the better.
Posted by: emmylou83, Stratton on 2:57pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote]And lets face it, these are the same people who object to EVERY new proposal and would like nothing better than for Swindon to remain the functional, mediocre town it currently is[/quote]
Not everyone, I personally am against the canal but by all means bring on change just decent change
And lets face it, these are the same people who object to EVERY new proposal and would like nothing better than for Swindon to remain the functional, mediocre town it currently is
Not everyone, I personally am against the canal but by all means bring on change just decent change
Posted by: Another Ginger, without a paddle on 2:58pm Thu 15 May 08
I'm quite a fan of Brum. I think the transformation has been dramatic from what it was thirty years ago. I'd choose Brum over London anyday.
That aside, I want to support this canal project, but we STILL DON'T HAVE ANSWERS. Where is the traffic going? Who will pay for the maintenance contracts? Will there actually be any maintenance contracts for that matter? There are lots of flashy projects all over the UK that look shiney at opening, but dull and tatty after a few years.
Until we're offered hard proposals, I can't see how support will improve. The naysayers and NIMBYS will continue to thrive and slowly grind down the possibility of turning Swindon into a town with a soul again.
Or perhaps we could become a working museum for '60s planning and architecture?
I'm quite a fan of Brum. I think the transformation has been dramatic from what it was thirty years ago. I'd choose Brum over London anyday.
That aside, I want to support this canal project, but we STILL DON'T HAVE ANSWERS. Where is the traffic going? Who will pay for the maintenance contracts? Will there actually be any maintenance contracts for that matter? There are lots of flashy projects all over the UK that look shiney at opening, but dull and tatty after a few years.
Until we're offered hard proposals, I can't see how support will improve. The naysayers and NIMBYS will continue to thrive and slowly grind down the possibility of turning Swindon into a town with a soul again.
Or perhaps we could become a working museum for '60s planning and architecture?
Posted by: Cjones1234, Swindon, Peatmoor on 3:00pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote]Most residents?[/quote]
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon.
i say bring it on
Most residents?
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon.
i say bring it on
Posted by: Cjones1234, Swindon, Peatmoor on 3:00pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote]Most residents?[/quote]
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon.
i say bring it on
Most residents?
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon.
i say bring it on
Posted by: potluck, swindon on 3:01pm Thu 15 May 08
yes i agree that there was a canal in swindon, it was part of the heritage and the infrastructure was built around it, only to be filled in by the various councils over the years. if you want to pick holes in my argument, why not bring back the local commuter trains as well, as that is more of a social and environmental issue in these days of trying to be green.
the former canal route would have less of an impact to the people of swindon than the illogical prposed route.
Up the movement for new railway stations, bring back the line to highworth, forget park and rides the future is by rail
yes i agree that there was a canal in swindon, it was part of the heritage and the infrastructure was built around it, only to be filled in by the various councils over the years. if you want to pick holes in my argument, why not bring back the local commuter trains as well, as that is more of a social and environmental issue in these days of trying to be green.
the former canal route would have less of an impact to the people of swindon than the illogical prposed route.
Up the movement for new railway stations, bring back the line to highworth, forget park and rides the future is by rail
Posted by: DarkAuror, Swindon on 3:10pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Richard[/bold] wrote:
Yeti - you are having me on. Banbury's canalside is pretty bland, just the back wall of a shopping centre and a few bridges. Birmingham's canalside has so much more going for it. Other bits of the city might be a hole - though to be honest, people like us in glasshouses (Swindon) shouldn't throw stones - but not the canalside. But like I've said before, you should go look at the Huddersfield canal, or the Forth & Clyde, for what happens when you put a canal back in an urban area and do it well. Go look at the Rochdale canal to see how canal works can actually improve road traffic, not worsen it.[/quote] Richard, from a previous thread, you had suggested to me to look at Rochdale/Huddersfiel
d/forth-Clyde regeneration. I have done some research and the photos do look impressive and as you have said they have improved the traffic issues.
However, I still have issues. In the review document of the Halcrow study to the SBC cabinet which was dated in January 2007 (15 months ago). It was recommended a more detailed study was needed with one of the biggest issues to be resolve was traffic and the completion of the Transport Plan.
Why did it take a council meeting in April 2008 when a motion to stop the project got the Cabinet to agree that a more detailed study was needed, 15th months after the review of the original study.
I disagreed that Labour's motion to stop the project dead but put it to a public referendum. However, the Conservative controled cabinet have sat on the recommendations of a more detailed study for 15 months.
The public don't want vague visions but facts on how this will affect Swindon. So when will the public see the Transport Plan and why was the review sat on for 15 months?
Richard wrote:
Yeti - you are having me on. Banbury's canalside is pretty bland, just the back wall of a shopping centre and a few bridges. Birmingham's canalside has so much more going for it. Other bits of the city might be a hole - though to be honest, people like us in glasshouses (Swindon) shouldn't throw stones - but not the canalside. But like I've said before, you should go look at the Huddersfield canal, or the Forth & Clyde, for what happens when you put a canal back in an urban area and do it well. Go look at the Rochdale canal to see how canal works can actually improve road traffic, not worsen it.
Richard, from a previous thread, you had suggested to me to look at Rochdale/Huddersfiel
d/forth-Clyde regeneration. I have done some research and the photos do look impressive and as you have said they have improved the traffic issues.
However, I still have issues. In the review document of the Halcrow study to the SBC cabinet which was dated in January 2007 (15 months ago). It was recommended a more detailed study was needed with one of the biggest issues to be resolve was traffic and the completion of the Transport Plan.
Why did it take a council meeting in April 2008 when a motion to stop the project got the Cabinet to agree that a more detailed study was needed, 15th months after the review of the original study.
I disagreed that Labour's motion to stop the project dead but put it to a public referendum. However, the Conservative controled cabinet have sat on the recommendations of a more detailed study for 15 months.
The public don't want vague visions but facts on how this will affect Swindon. So when will the public see the Transport Plan and why was the review sat on for 15 months?
Posted by: fish n nips, Swindon on 3:15pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]potluck[/bold] wrote:
one good suggestion for those wishing to see a canal be built, and to spend many summers watching people enjoy it. Move to another town and enjoy to your hearts content. we have plenty of fantastic parks in and around swindon that these monies should be spent on, for all the people and not the few who love canals[/quote] potluck, canals were in this town long before you and i were around so i suggest if you dont want a canal, why dont you move somewhere where there are lots of nice parks?! or in aother words, any standard town or city. Us Swindonians can then have the canal most residents are looking forward to enjoying.
potluck wrote:
one good suggestion for those wishing to see a canal be built, and to spend many summers watching people enjoy it. Move to another town and enjoy to your hearts content. we have plenty of fantastic parks in and around swindon that these monies should be spent on, for all the people and not the few who love canals
potluck, canals were in this town long before you and i were around so i suggest if you dont want a canal, why dont you move somewhere where there are lots of nice parks?! or in aother words, any standard town or city. Us Swindonians can then have the canal most residents are looking forward to enjoying.
Posted by: DarkAuror, Swindon on 3:15pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]potluck[/bold] wrote:
yes i agree that there was a canal in swindon, it was part of the heritage and the infrastructure was built around it, only to be filled in by the various councils over the years. if you want to pick holes in my argument, why not bring back the local commuter trains as well, as that is more of a social and environmental issue in these days of trying to be green. the former canal route would have less of an impact to the people of swindon than the illogical prposed route. Up the movement for new railway stations, bring back the line to highworth, forget park and rides the future is by rail[/quote] I suggested trams and opening a rail station from Moredon Bridges to Justin Tomlinson in his election web debate as an alternative to the canal project. He was going to pass the suggestion to Councillor Bluh but some how I think the suggestion will be quietly put in the bin. :(
potluck wrote:
yes i agree that there was a canal in swindon, it was part of the heritage and the infrastructure was built around it, only to be filled in by the various councils over the years. if you want to pick holes in my argument, why not bring back the local commuter trains as well, as that is more of a social and environmental issue in these days of trying to be green. the former canal route would have less of an impact to the people of swindon than the illogical prposed route. Up the movement for new railway stations, bring back the line to highworth, forget park and rides the future is by rail
I suggested trams and opening a rail station from Moredon Bridges to Justin Tomlinson in his election web debate as an alternative to the canal project. He was going to pass the suggestion to Councillor Bluh but some how I think the suggestion will be quietly put in the bin. :(
Posted by: Al Smith, Swindon, UK on 3:20pm Thu 15 May 08
Another canal propaganda piece...
Birmingham is different to Swindon because all they had to do was clean up their existing canals. In Swindon they'll be closing down roads and digging a brand new canal. A canal that for the foreseeable future will only go from one bit of Swindon to another.
How on earth will having a canal change the perception of Swindon? Milton Keynes and Slough have canals, as far as I know they're not exactly tourist havens with a particularly good image.
Another canal propaganda piece...
Birmingham is different to Swindon because all they had to do was clean up their existing canals. In Swindon they'll be closing down roads and digging a brand new canal. A canal that for the foreseeable future will only go from one bit of Swindon to another.
How on earth will having a canal change the perception of Swindon? Milton Keynes and Slough have canals, as far as I know they're not exactly tourist havens with a particularly good image.
Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 3:23pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Cjones1234[/bold] wrote:
[quote]Most residents?[/quote] Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on[/quote] And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon?
I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal.
Cjones1234 wrote:
Most residents?
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on
And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon?
I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal.
Posted by: emmylou83, Stratton on 3:30pm Thu 15 May 08
Milton Keynes has a canal??? Missed it on my way to the shops obviously I'll have a look when I'm there at end of June and see
Milton Keynes has a canal??? Missed it on my way to the shops obviously I'll have a look when I'm there at end of June and see
Posted by: potluck, swindon on 3:34pm Thu 15 May 08
the survey by the adver was not a straight "yes" or "no", yet still gave the 60:40 result against the canal, i have seen the canal in swindon, the branch lines and the heritage disappear, yet i still feel that Swindon with the right development can be a great place again
the survey by the adver was not a straight "yes" or "no", yet still gave the 60:40 result against the canal, i have seen the canal in swindon, the branch lines and the heritage disappear, yet i still feel that Swindon with the right development can be a great place again
Posted by: yeti, swindon on 3:34pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Richard[/bold] wrote:
Yeti - you are having me on. Banbury's canalside is pretty bland, just the back wall of a shopping centre and a few bridges. Birmingham's canalside has so much more going for it. Other bits of the city might be a hole - though to be honest, people like us in glasshouses (Swindon) shouldn't throw stones - but not the canalside. But like I've said before, you should go look at the Huddersfield canal, or the Forth & Clyde, for what happens when you put a canal back in an urban area and do it well. Go look at the Rochdale canal to see how canal works can actually improve road traffic, not worsen it.[/quote] birmingham had a massive amout of canal already.a tidy up job is nothing like what is being talked about in swindon.building from scratch is a massive job.
banbury has been kept simple and looks good.
i'm not anti canal if it can work.
Richard wrote:
Yeti - you are having me on. Banbury's canalside is pretty bland, just the back wall of a shopping centre and a few bridges. Birmingham's canalside has so much more going for it. Other bits of the city might be a hole - though to be honest, people like us in glasshouses (Swindon) shouldn't throw stones - but not the canalside. But like I've said before, you should go look at the Huddersfield canal, or the Forth & Clyde, for what happens when you put a canal back in an urban area and do it well. Go look at the Rochdale canal to see how canal works can actually improve road traffic, not worsen it.
birmingham had a massive amout of canal already.a tidy up job is nothing like what is being talked about in swindon.building from scratch is a massive job.
banbury has been kept simple and looks good.
i'm not anti canal if it can work.
Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 3:37pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]potluck[/bold] wrote:
the survey by the adver was not a straight "yes" or "no", yet still gave the 60:40 result against the canal, i have seen the canal in swindon, the branch lines and the heritage disappear, yet i still feel that Swindon with the right development can be a great place again[/quote] The adver did do a survey in the town center which was a yes-or-no - it was not limited to the website, rather reporters were on the street.
potluck wrote:
the survey by the adver was not a straight "yes" or "no", yet still gave the 60:40 result against the canal, i have seen the canal in swindon, the branch lines and the heritage disappear, yet i still feel that Swindon with the right development can be a great place again
The adver did do a survey in the town center which was a yes-or-no - it was not limited to the website, rather reporters were on the street.
Posted by: Cjones1234, Swindon, Peatmoor on 3:39pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote]Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 3:23pm today
[quote][bold]Cjones1234[/bold] wrote: [quote]Most residents?[/quote] Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on[/quote] And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon? I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal.
Cjones1234 wrote:
Most residents?
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on
And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon?
I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal.[/quote]
so your saying 1000 people represent the whole of swindon??? im sure theres a few more people i nthe town that that....1000 is a huge minority.and generaly you find that the majority of people who use the adver bords are against the canal.....so no wonder it was 60/40.
Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 3:23pm today
Cjones1234 wrote: Most residents?
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on
And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon? I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal.
Cjones1234 wrote:
Most residents?
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on
And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon?
I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal.
so your saying 1000 people represent the whole of swindon??? im sure theres a few more people i nthe town that that....1000 is a huge minority.and generaly you find that the majority of people who use the adver bords are against the canal.....so no wonder it was 60/40.
Posted by: Keysey, Swindon on 3:40pm Thu 15 May 08
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
Posted by: Keysey, Swindon on 3:40pm Thu 15 May 08
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
Posted by: Cjones1234, Swindon, Peatmoor on 3:43pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote]Posted by: Keysey, Swindon on 3:40pm today
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.[/quote]
whooop.....hear hear
Posted by: Keysey, Swindon on 3:40pm today
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
whooop.....hear hear
Posted by: Dr Bongo on 3:43pm Thu 15 May 08
For the money that re-opening the canal would cost, I think I'd rather have a light-rail (tram) system instead...
[ducks for cover ;-) ]
For the money that re-opening the canal would cost, I think I'd rather have a light-rail (tram) system instead...
Posted by: Cjones1234, Swindon, Peatmoor on 3:43pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote]Posted by: Keysey, Swindon on 3:40pm today
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.[/quote]
whooop.....hear hear
Posted by: Keysey, Swindon on 3:40pm today
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
I agree with you fish and nips. Canals add a bit of character to the town. I thought Swindon was mostly made up of single mothers....I was wrong...single mothers and very small minded people.
whooop.....hear hear
Posted by: Ewan Hughes Army, Swindon on 3:57pm Thu 15 May 08
Hmm, a coach trip to Birmingham to see a canal. I can't understand why they weren't flooded with people eager to take them up on this offer. What next, a mini bus to Clacton to see the pier?
Hmm, a coach trip to Birmingham to see a canal. I can't understand why they weren't flooded with people eager to take them up on this offer. What next, a mini bus to Clacton to see the pier?
Posted by: DarkAuror, Swindon on 3:58pm Thu 15 May 08
Oh dear, this is the 3rd story today where people have expressed their opinions and other posters have replied with childish derogative comments. This is a debate where the canal effects everyone and it appears to be one that a lot of people have an opinion. Maybe SBC council should have a public debate broadcasted on either BBC Swindon or GWR and get everyone's opinions.
Oh dear, this is the 3rd story today where people have expressed their opinions and other posters have replied with childish derogative comments. This is a debate where the canal effects everyone and it appears to be one that a lot of people have an opinion. Maybe SBC council should have a public debate broadcasted on either BBC Swindon or GWR and get everyone's opinions.
Posted by: angry monkey, Swindon on 4:03pm Thu 15 May 08
Why would anyone need to go to Birmingham to see what a canal is like?
And more to the point If someone as thick enough not to have a picture of a canal in their head, why would they want to waste a day of their lives on a bus to birmingham to see one?
Why would anyone need to go to Birmingham to see what a canal is like?
And more to the point If someone as thick enough not to have a picture of a canal in their head, why would they want to waste a day of their lives on a bus to birmingham to see one?
Posted by: Tobz on 4:19pm Thu 15 May 08
17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?
17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?
Posted by: Taxpower, Swinetown on 4:28pm Thu 15 May 08
there is a reason why the canal disappeared, there is a reason why Dinosaurs died out
shall we bring back the locomotives too?
there is a reason why the canal disappeared, there is a reason why Dinosaurs died out
shall we bring back the locomotives too?
Posted by: fish n nips, Swindon on 4:29pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Tobz[/bold] wrote:
17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?[/quote] practical, is that all we want for this town? Im totally for a canal not just on economic grounds but to add some character and identity to our town.. its practical to build lots of cheap house in North Swindon but to me, it all looks the same and in time will become as uninspiring as west Swindon is now. A canal will regenerate a large area and give us something to be proud of.
Tobz wrote:
17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?
practical, is that all we want for this town? Im totally for a canal not just on economic grounds but to add some character and identity to our town.. its practical to build lots of cheap house in North Swindon but to me, it all looks the same and in time will become as uninspiring as west Swindon is now. A canal will regenerate a large area and give us something to be proud of.
Posted by: Al Smith, Swindon, UK on 4:31pm Thu 15 May 08
Seeing as we seem to at the start of an economic downturn (if not a full recession) they probably won't be starting anything for a good few years. Now is not a good time for property developers - who'll be funding this.
Seeing as we seem to at the start of an economic downturn (if not a full recession) they probably won't be starting anything for a good few years. Now is not a good time for property developers - who'll be funding this.
Posted by: Casual Observer, Swindon on 4:37pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Tobz[/bold] wrote:
17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?[/quote] Rome wasn't buit in a day. As for practical, quickly delivered things - we just got a massive new telly and and smart square and everyone moaned about that (well, not quite everyone)
Tobz wrote:
17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?
Rome wasn't buit in a day. As for practical, quickly delivered things - we just got a massive new telly and and smart square and everyone moaned about that (well, not quite everyone)
Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 4:45pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Cjones1234[/bold] wrote:
[quote]Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 3:23pm today [quote][bold]Cjones1234[/bold] wrote: [quote]Most residents?[/quote] Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on[/quote] And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon? I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal. Cjones1234 wrote: Most residents? Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon? I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal.[/quote] so your saying 1000 people represent the whole of swindon??? im sure theres a few more people i nthe town that that....1000 is a huge minority.and generaly you find that the majority of people who use the adver bords are against the canal.....so no wonder it was 60/40.[/quote] It wasn't on the adver boards!
It was adver reporters in the town center asking people if they'd like to see the canal!
As it stands that is the most representative survey done so far - it's completely illogical to claim that most residents are in favour without figures to back it up - it's sloppy and insulting.
Cjones1234 wrote:
Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 3:23pm today Cjones1234 wrote: Most residents?
Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on
And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon? I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal. Cjones1234 wrote: Most residents? Funily enough the people who post on the adver are certainly not a majority just the most negative people in swindon. i say bring it on And I assume you've done an extensive survey of Swindon? I thought not. The most extensive survey done so far was of 1,000 people by the Adver, which came out at 60:40 against the canal. As that's the most representative done so far, I'd say that most residents are NOT for the canal.
so your saying 1000 people represent the whole of swindon??? im sure theres a few more people i nthe town that that....1000 is a huge minority.and generaly you find that the majority of people who use the adver bords are against the canal.....so no wonder it was 60/40.
It wasn't on the adver boards!
It was adver reporters in the town center asking people if they'd like to see the canal!
As it stands that is the most representative survey done so far - it's completely illogical to claim that most residents are in favour without figures to back it up - it's sloppy and insulting.
Posted by: DarkAuror, Swindon on 4:45pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Casual Observer[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Tobz[/bold] wrote: 17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?[/quote] Rome wasn't buit in a day. As for practical, quickly delivered things - we just got a massive new telly and and smart square and everyone moaned about that (well, not quite everyone)[/quote] If you say 3 years of planning and then construction is quick. I agree that Wharf Green does look good, bet that SBC were cursing the England football team when they got knocked out! ;0)
Casual Observer wrote:
Tobz wrote: 17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?
Rome wasn't buit in a day. As for practical, quickly delivered things - we just got a massive new telly and and smart square and everyone moaned about that (well, not quite everyone)
If you say 3 years of planning and then construction is quick. I agree that Wharf Green does look good, bet that SBC were cursing the England football team when they got knocked out! ;0)
Posted by: Casual Observer, Swindon on 4:56pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]DarkAuror[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Casual Observer[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Tobz[/bold] wrote: 17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?[/quote] Rome wasn't buit in a day. As for practical, quickly delivered things - we just got a massive new telly and and smart square and everyone moaned about that (well, not quite everyone)[/quote] If you say 3 years of planning and then construction is quick. I agree that Wharf Green does look good, bet that SBC were cursing the England football team when they got knocked out! ;0)[/quote] It does look great, and if they make as good a job with the canal I think it'll be a definite winner.
Let's have it! (sorry Tobz for that non-cogent argument ;¬)
DarkAuror wrote:
Casual Observer wrote:
Tobz wrote: 17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?
Rome wasn't buit in a day. As for practical, quickly delivered things - we just got a massive new telly and and smart square and everyone moaned about that (well, not quite everyone)
If you say 3 years of planning and then construction is quick. I agree that Wharf Green does look good, bet that SBC were cursing the England football team when they got knocked out! ;0)
It does look great, and if they make as good a job with the canal I think it'll be a definite winner.
Let's have it! (sorry Tobz for that non-cogent argument ;¬)
Posted by: WTF?, Swindon on 5:01pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote]Grimaldi: Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.[/quote]
Yeah right. Just type in 'Birmingham Crime Figures' into Google and tell me again how nice the place is.
AND: Web Team you're wrong as usual. You have no idea whether I was at the Walcot meeting last night. You didn't ask for usernames as people entered the 'dome' did you! Idiots.
Grimaldi: Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.
Yeah right. Just type in 'Birmingham Crime Figures' into Google and tell me again how nice the place is.
AND: Web Team you're wrong as usual. You have no idea whether I was at the Walcot meeting last night. You didn't ask for usernames as people entered the 'dome' did you! Idiots.
Posted by: Keysey, Swindon on 5:29pm Thu 15 May 08
Think outside the box people of Swindon and have a bit of vision....go on...you can do it !!! Roll on the Canals of Swindon!!!
Think outside the box people of Swindon and have a bit of vision....go on...you can do it !!! Roll on the Canals of Swindon!!!
Posted by: Donkey, Swindon on 5:47pm Thu 15 May 08
They've done it ... my golly, they've done it!
Tha Swindon Advertiser has made the Guinness Book Of Records for the number of times a single, trivial piece of local dreamy fantasy can be turned into (re-hashed, or is it re-hacked?) a fresh article.
Also, there is a special award for the number of Comments Board entries that say exactly the same thing over and over again! So let's give ourselves a clap!
Well done, indeed, from The Donkey!
I would love a circular route for a canal, but Town Centre ... NO!
Incidentally, Blue Rod's got his own Adver column promoting how marvellous his little crowd are, is he a member of the NUJ now? He'll be linking up with Justin and starting his own daily if you give hime too much encouragement ... after all, he doesn't even mention the canal since he's lit the blue touch paper!
Also, putting the cat amongst the pigeons ... I personally do not like the modernist extension to the Town Hall, I think some are calling it a 'white elephant, I mean [italic]'Library'[/italic] ... what a waste of opportunity to create something grand for this town.
They've done it ... my golly, they've done it!
Tha Swindon Advertiser has made the Guinness Book Of Records for the number of times a single, trivial piece of local dreamy fantasy can be turned into (re-hashed, or is it re-hacked?) a fresh article.
Also, there is a special award for the number of Comments Board entries that say exactly the same thing over and over again! So let's give ourselves a clap!
Well done, indeed, from The Donkey!
I would love a circular route for a canal, but Town Centre ... NO!
Incidentally, Blue Rod's got his own Adver column promoting how marvellous his little crowd are, is he a member of the NUJ now? He'll be linking up with Justin and starting his own daily if you give hime too much encouragement ... after all, he doesn't even mention the canal since he's lit the blue touch paper!
Also, putting the cat amongst the pigeons ... I personally do not like the modernist extension to the Town Hall, I think some are calling it a 'white elephant, I mean
'Library' ... what a waste of opportunity to create something grand for this town.
Posted by: vigil, swindon on 6:58pm Thu 15 May 08
Screw this project. Save money, and give it back to us in reduced outgoings on 'council' tax. And while you're at it, sling out much of the fat. MUCH, Much of the fat in the council.
People need to conserve money in current times.
Screw this project. Save money, and give it back to us in reduced outgoings on 'council' tax. And while you're at it, sling out much of the fat. MUCH, Much of the fat in the council.
People need to conserve money in current times.
Posted by: Loft Conversions, Swindon on 8:20pm Thu 15 May 08
I have it on good authority that the canal will happen. Plans are a lot further down the line than people think.
It might take 10 years, but it'll happen, believe me.
I have it on good authority that the canal will happen. Plans are a lot further down the line than people think.
It might take 10 years, but it'll happen, believe me.
Posted by: WTF?, Swindon on 9:08pm Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Loft Conversions[/bold] wrote:
I have it on good authority that the canal will happen. Plans are a lot further down the line than people think. It might take 10 years, but it'll happen, believe me.[/quote] Oh grow up.
You know nothing.
If plans are further down the line then they need to start work within ten years for any approved plans to be legal.
Loft Conversions wrote:
I have it on good authority that the canal will happen. Plans are a lot further down the line than people think. It might take 10 years, but it'll happen, believe me.
Oh grow up.
You know nothing.
If plans are further down the line then they need to start work within ten years for any approved plans to be legal.
Posted by: PeeGee, Swindon on 9:11pm Thu 15 May 08
Wot, no comment from RFM on UKIP stance on canals?
No rebuff from Cllr Just Tom to Donkey's politicising of urban waterways?
Only Joe Public putting views across (Donkey excepted)?
How disappointing. This article resembles comments boards of other local papers across the country. How unlike Swindon.
Wot, no comment from RFM on UKIP stance on canals?
No rebuff from Cllr Just Tom to Donkey's politicising of urban waterways?
Only Joe Public putting views across (Donkey excepted)?
How disappointing. This article resembles comments boards of other local papers across the country. How unlike Swindon.
Posted by: TonyJanson, Chippenham on 10:32pm Thu 15 May 08
I remember an expensive and ridiculous water feature in the town some 20/30 years ago - since demolished and forgotten. I wonder how many in the 40% canvassed realise that the Canal will not be a free installation ? I also wonder how long it will be before Swindon`s second canal is filled in ? Swindonians have such fun !
I remember an expensive and ridiculous water feature in the town some 20/30 years ago - since demolished and forgotten. I wonder how many in the 40% canvassed realise that the Canal will not be a free installation ? I also wonder how long it will be before Swindon`s second canal is filled in ? Swindonians have such fun !
Posted by: SpeakUp, Swindon on 3:10am Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]TonyJanson[/bold] wrote:
I remember an expensive and ridiculous water feature in the town some 20/30 years ago - since demolished and forgotten. I wonder how many in the 40% canvassed realise that the Canal will not be a free installation ? I also wonder how long it will be before Swindon`s second canal is filled in ? Swindonians have such fun ![/quote] Forgotten? I suspect we never will. And as we have more drunks and druggies now, a longer water feature would give them all room to sit along it. Great plan.
TonyJanson wrote:
I remember an expensive and ridiculous water feature in the town some 20/30 years ago - since demolished and forgotten. I wonder how many in the 40% canvassed realise that the Canal will not be a free installation ? I also wonder how long it will be before Swindon`s second canal is filled in ? Swindonians have such fun !
Forgotten? I suspect we never will. And as we have more drunks and druggies now, a longer water feature would give them all room to sit along it. Great plan.
Posted by: DarkAuror, Swindon on 8:29am Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]Loft Conversions[/bold] wrote:
I have it on good authority that the canal will happen. Plans are a lot further down the line than people think. It might take 10 years, but it'll happen, believe me.[/quote] Has your source told when the council are going to complete the Transport Plan? This Plan needs to be approved by Highway Agency and HMG before any Canal plan can go ahead.
Loft Conversions wrote:
I have it on good authority that the canal will happen. Plans are a lot further down the line than people think. It might take 10 years, but it'll happen, believe me.
Has your source told when the council are going to complete the Transport Plan? This Plan needs to be approved by Highway Agency and HMG before any Canal plan can go ahead.
Posted by: Robert Feal-Martinez, Swindon on 8:46am Fri 16 May 08
During a post election meeting UKIP candidates discussed the Canal, and have as a member someone who is also active with the Canal Trust. The simple truth is, no decision has been taken, either on the route (as DA says, that can't happen until the roads issue is sorted). No agreement has been reached over funding from Developers, but we are told there will be a Canal. Whilst UKIP have always made it clear that we as a group are split on this issue we are prepared to listen, with that in mind we have invited the Canal Trust to hold a presentation evening, at a date to be arranged for the public to put questions to the group. We have asked that the CE of the trust and Roy Cartwright be present to answer the sorts of questions posed in the Adver. We would also hope that the Adver becomes involved. I believe there is a need for a balanced debate to occur. UKIP are happy to host such a debate whilst remaining non committal on the project.
During a post election meeting UKIP candidates discussed the Canal, and have as a member someone who is also active with the Canal Trust. The simple truth is, no decision has been taken, either on the route (as DA says, that can't happen until the roads issue is sorted). No agreement has been reached over funding from Developers, but we are told there will be a Canal. Whilst UKIP have always made it clear that we as a group are split on this issue we are prepared to listen, with that in mind we have invited the Canal Trust to hold a presentation evening, at a date to be arranged for the public to put questions to the group. We have asked that the CE of the trust and Roy Cartwright be present to answer the sorts of questions posed in the Adver. We would also hope that the Adver becomes involved. I believe there is a need for a balanced debate to occur. UKIP are happy to host such a debate whilst remaining non committal on the project.
Posted by: Cjones1234, Swindon, Peatmoor on 9:11am Fri 16 May 08
[quote]It wasn't on the adver boards!
It was adver reporters in the town center asking people if they'd like to see the canal!
As it stands that is the most representative survey done so far - it's completely illogical to claim that most residents are in favour without figures to back it up - it's sloppy and insulting.[/quote]
you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.
It wasn't on the adver boards!
It was adver reporters in the town center asking people if they'd like to see the canal!
As it stands that is the most representative survey done so far - it's completely illogical to claim that most residents are in favour without figures to back it up - it's sloppy and insulting.
you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.
Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 9:14am Fri 16 May 08
[quote]you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.[/quote]
So why are people (including yourself) claiming that the majority of people are in favour, when I can't use a vote that would suggest the opposite according to your rules?
you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.
So why are people (including yourself) claiming that the majority of people are in favour, when I can't use a vote that would suggest the opposite according to your rules?
Posted by: emmylou83, Stratton on 9:20am Fri 16 May 08
[quote]AND: Web Team you're wrong as usual. You have no idea whether I was at the Walcot meeting last night. You didn't ask for usernames as people entered the 'dome' did you! Idiots[/quote] .
Thats right abuse the webteam oooh you're so hard haha
AND: Web Team you're wrong as usual. You have no idea whether I was at the Walcot meeting last night. You didn't ask for usernames as people entered the 'dome' did you! Idiots
.
Thats right abuse the webteam oooh you're so hard haha
Posted by: Cjones1234, Swindon, Peatmoor on 9:25am Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]LordBelacqua[/bold] wrote:
[quote]you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.[/quote] So why are people (including yourself) claiming that the majority of people are in favour, when I can't use a vote that would suggest the opposite according to your rules?[/quote] because in every argument all the people who are agains it make they include the 60/40 poll (including yourself). you still cant claim theres a majority overall. i certainly wasnt asked in this poll and im in the town everday........
LordBelacqua wrote:
you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.
So why are people (including yourself) claiming that the majority of people are in favour, when I can't use a vote that would suggest the opposite according to your rules?
because in every argument all the people who are agains it make they include the 60/40 poll (including yourself). you still cant claim theres a majority overall. i certainly wasnt asked in this poll and im in the town everday........
Posted by: LordBelacqua, Swindon on 9:48am Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]Cjones1234[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]LordBelacqua[/bold] wrote: [quote]you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.[/quote] So why are people (including yourself) claiming that the majority of people are in favour, when I can't use a vote that would suggest the opposite according to your rules?[/quote] because in every argument all the people who are agains it make they include the 60/40 poll (including yourself). you still cant claim theres a majority overall. i certainly wasnt asked in this poll and im in the town everday........[/quote] Well then I should ask the same courtesy from supporters of the canal then.
Cjones1234 wrote:
LordBelacqua wrote: you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.
So why are people (including yourself) claiming that the majority of people are in favour, when I can't use a vote that would suggest the opposite according to your rules?
because in every argument all the people who are agains it make they include the 60/40 poll (including yourself). you still cant claim theres a majority overall. i certainly wasnt asked in this poll and im in the town everday........
Well then I should ask the same courtesy from supporters of the canal then.
Posted by: Al Smith, Swindon, UK on 10:21am Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]LordBelacqua[/bold] wrote:
[quote]you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.[/quote]
So why are people (including yourself) claiming that the majority of people are in favour, when I can't use a vote that would suggest the opposite according to your rules?[/quote] Why? Simple because it doesn't agree with their opinion.
LordBelacqua wrote:
you still cant claim that 1000 people represent a majority. this subject is so controversial it needs to go to a proper vote.
So why are people (including yourself) claiming that the majority of people are in favour, when I can't use a vote that would suggest the opposite according to your rules?
Why? Simple because it doesn't agree with their opinion.
Posted by: steve-o, Swindon on 10:29am Fri 16 May 08
i have seen endless canals this week brum , manchester, reading and shewsbury.
As stated earlier they were already there,where they want takes an important part of the towns heart, it a no goer, god i wish i was out of this town again today.
Emma there is canal by milton Keynes, now thats a bonus for that s***hole
i have seen endless canals this week brum , manchester, reading and shewsbury.
As stated earlier they were already there,where they want takes an important part of the towns heart, it a no goer, god i wish i was out of this town again today.
Emma there is canal by milton Keynes, now thats a bonus for that s***hole
Posted by: Robert Feal-Martinez, Swindon on 10:46am Fri 16 May 08
Nice to see Pee Gee making a constructive contribution to the debate. Whilst I would not suggest for the moment this poll was representative, heaven forbid, I would just point out most National Polls, on most things use about 1000 to 1100 people.
Nice to see Pee Gee making a constructive contribution to the debate. Whilst I would not suggest for the moment this poll was representative, heaven forbid, I would just point out most National Polls, on most things use about 1000 to 1100 people.
Posted by: me here, somewhere on 11:17am Fri 16 May 08
I agree with Dr Bongo - something like the MRT system in Singapore would be even better!!! Failing that I think a canal would be wonderful, as long as the remaking of it wouldn't cause too much disruption!!! Aren't they already redeveloping parts of Swindon where the old canal used to be? So wouldn't that mean redeveloping parts that had only just been redeveloped? I haven't had the chance to go into the shop as it is always closed when I am in town, so I don't know what route it intends to take. Is there a website with the info on?
I agree with Dr Bongo - something like the MRT system in Singapore would be even better!!! Failing that I think a canal would be wonderful, as long as the remaking of it wouldn't cause too much disruption!!! Aren't they already redeveloping parts of Swindon where the old canal used to be? So wouldn't that mean redeveloping parts that had only just been redeveloped? I haven't had the chance to go into the shop as it is always closed when I am in town, so I don't know what route it intends to take. Is there a website with the info on?
Posted by: DarkAuror, Swindon on 11:24am Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]me here[/bold] wrote:
I agree with Dr Bongo - something like the MRT system in Singapore would be even better!!! Failing that I think a canal would be wonderful, as long as the remaking of it wouldn't cause too much disruption!!! Aren't they already redeveloping parts of Swindon where the old canal used to be? So wouldn't that mean redeveloping parts that had only just been redeveloped? I haven't had the chance to go into the shop as it is always closed when I am in town, so I don't know what route it intends to take. Is there a website with the info on?[/quote] There's the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust site;
www.wbct.org.uk
or the Halcrow report can be found on the SBC website under;
- Click on Council and Democracy,
- click on Committee Meetings,
- click on Cabinet Meetings,
- click on Browse Meetings and Agendas,
- click on 23 Jan 2008 6.30pm
and it's item 111.
Or look under the Environment and Leisure Overview Committee for 21/03/2007 meeting and it's item 54
I've been more swayed with the recommendations from the Halcrow report which need to be addressed before the Canal can be built.
me here wrote:
I agree with Dr Bongo - something like the MRT system in Singapore would be even better!!! Failing that I think a canal would be wonderful, as long as the remaking of it wouldn't cause too much disruption!!! Aren't they already redeveloping parts of Swindon where the old canal used to be? So wouldn't that mean redeveloping parts that had only just been redeveloped? I haven't had the chance to go into the shop as it is always closed when I am in town, so I don't know what route it intends to take. Is there a website with the info on?
There's the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust site;
www.wbct.org.uk
or the Halcrow report can be found on the SBC website under;
- Click on Council and Democracy,
- click on Committee Meetings,
- click on Cabinet Meetings,
- click on Browse Meetings and Agendas,
- click on 23 Jan 2008 6.30pm
and it's item 111.
Or look under the Environment and Leisure Overview Committee for 21/03/2007 meeting and it's item 54
I've been more swayed with the recommendations from the Halcrow report which need to be addressed before the Canal can be built.
Posted by: thefox60, Swindon on 11:27am Fri 16 May 08
When we visit relatives in Buckinghamshire we always have a walk along the canal & stop for lunch in one of the pubs on route. It's always a lovely day out, even if it's raining. I'm all for it!
When we visit relatives in Buckinghamshire we always have a walk along the canal & stop for lunch in one of the pubs on route. It's always a lovely day out, even if it's raining. I'm all for it!
Posted by: me here, somewhere on 11:30am Fri 16 May 08
Thank you, Dark Auror, I will look now.
Thank you, Dark Auror, I will look now.
Posted by: Mick out West, West Swindon on 12:05pm Fri 16 May 08
Mr Cartwright, is it sinking in yet !!
Mr Cartwright, is it sinking in yet !!
Posted by: TonyJanson, Chippenham on 3:07pm Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]SpeakUp[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]TonyJanson[/bold] wrote: I remember an expensive and ridiculous water feature in the town some 20/30 years ago - since demolished and forgotten. I wonder how many in the 40% canvassed realise that the Canal will not be a free installation ? I also wonder how long it will be before Swindon`s second canal is filled in ? Swindonians have such fun ![/quote] Forgotten? I suspect we never will. And as we have more drunks and druggies now, a longer water feature would give them all room to sit along it. Great plan.[/quote] SPEAKUP : If there are a thousand of them perhaps they could be canvassed re The Canal ? Seriously, a fair cross-section has to make up 1000 for any such poll. It`s no good canvassing 1000 O.A.P`s or 1000 Penhill residents, if you know what I mean. Bet the Council go for the cheapest option whatever that might be.
SpeakUp wrote:
TonyJanson wrote: I remember an expensive and ridiculous water feature in the town some 20/30 years ago - since demolished and forgotten. I wonder how many in the 40% canvassed realise that the Canal will not be a free installation ? I also wonder how long it will be before Swindon`s second canal is filled in ? Swindonians have such fun !
Forgotten? I suspect we never will. And as we have more drunks and druggies now, a longer water feature would give them all room to sit along it. Great plan.
SPEAKUP : If there are a thousand of them perhaps they could be canvassed re The Canal ? Seriously, a fair cross-section has to make up 1000 for any such poll. It`s no good canvassing 1000 O.A.P`s or 1000 Penhill residents, if you know what I mean. Bet the Council go for the cheapest option whatever that might be.
Posted by: s.lovesey, Swindon on 5:30pm Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]yeti[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Grimaldi[/bold] wrote: [quote][bold]yeti[/bold] wrote: are the birmingham canals long existing? the swindon one would have to be created from scratch. birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go. the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.[/quote] Yeti - Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.[/quote] i've been to birmingham loads of times and that is my opinion of the place.[/quote] I work in birmingham and the city is nice with some great shops and clubs !!
yeti wrote:
Grimaldi wrote: yeti wrote: are the birmingham canals long existing? the swindon one would have to be created from scratch. birmingham is a **** hole and its no wonder anyone wanted to go. the canal in banbury and the shops around it are nice i'd like to add.
Yeti - Birmingham is not a ****hole, as you so eloquently put it. It has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in the last few years and is a far nicer town/city centre than most I have been to.
i've been to birmingham loads of times and that is my opinion of the place.
I work in birmingham and the city is nice with some great shops and clubs !!
Posted by: Captain Sensible, Near Swindon on 6:28pm Fri 16 May 08
I spent a week a few years ago in Birmingham on a narrow boat, very interesting it was too, especially the frequent stops to remove old tyres, rope, plastic and shopping trolleys from the prop. And of course the constant vandalism of canalside furniture and lock equipment. Im sure the canal in Swindon would be just as prone, and even if boaters do come, assuming that the 20 miles either side of our town could be connected to the rest of the network, why would they want to stop here? To view the bliddy giant TV outside Rancid Macs? Gibe us a break! What a monumental waste of money this pie in the sky scheme is.
I spent a week a few years ago in Birmingham on a narrow boat, very interesting it was too, especially the frequent stops to remove old tyres, rope, plastic and shopping trolleys from the prop. And of course the constant vandalism of canalside furniture and lock equipment. Im sure the canal in Swindon would be just as prone, and even if boaters do come, assuming that the 20 miles either side of our town could be connected to the rest of the network, why would they want to stop here? To view the bliddy giant TV outside Rancid Macs? Gibe us a break! What a monumental waste of money this pie in the sky scheme is.
Posted by: PeeGee, Swindon on 8:49pm Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]Robert Feal-Martinez[/bold] wrote:
Nice to see Pee Gee making a constructive contribution to the debate. Whilst I would not suggest for the moment this poll was representative, heaven forbid, I would just point out most National Polls, on most things use about 1000 to 1100 people.[/quote] I merely commented that the usual suspects were not carrying out their political point scoring on this thread. But, hey presto, here you are. It was a good debate until that point.
Pray, what constructive contribution do you ever make? Oh yes, "UKIP......" zzzzzzzzzz.
Personally, I think the offer of a trip to a metropolitan area was a little niaive. The comparison is tenable to say the least. So there, constructive enough?
As for te canal proposals themselves, it may work. There is a law and order issue in the town. If that is resolved, it could be quite pleasant when in place. I realise Swindonians put their own town down frequently. It's a bit of a defence mechanism. But this, in theory, could work if town centre management is altered.
Oh no, I feel another "UKIP....." moment happening.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Robert Feal-Martinez wrote:
Nice to see Pee Gee making a constructive contribution to the debate. Whilst I would not suggest for the moment this poll was representative, heaven forbid, I would just point out most National Polls, on most things use about 1000 to 1100 people.
I merely commented that the usual suspects were not carrying out their political point scoring on this thread. But, hey presto, here you are. It was a good debate until that point.
Pray, what constructive contribution do you ever make? Oh yes, "UKIP......" zzzzzzzzzz.
Personally, I think the offer of a trip to a metropolitan area was a little niaive. The comparison is tenable to say the least. So there, constructive enough?
As for te canal proposals themselves, it may work. There is a law and order issue in the town. If that is resolved, it could be quite pleasant when in place. I realise Swindonians put their own town down frequently. It's a bit of a defence mechanism. But this, in theory, could work if town centre management is altered.
Oh no, I feel another "UKIP....." moment happening.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Posted by: dalekdave, Swindon on 10:00pm Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]fish n nips[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Tobz[/bold] wrote: 17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?[/quote] practical, is that all we want for this town? Im totally for a canal not just on economic grounds but to add some character and identity to our town.. its practical to build lots of cheap house in North Swindon but to me, it all looks the same and in time will become as uninspiring as west Swindon is now. A canal will regenerate a large area and give us something to be proud of. [/quote] Frankly, this is offensive. I live in West Swindon and have lived all over the town for the whole 40 years of my life. Where I live there is fantastic neighbourly spirit which I have not encountered anywhere else I have lived in the town. Theres lots of greenery as well as the fantastic Lydiard Park and near me the new Forest and the Peatmor Lagoon. Oh and I think theres a river or a canal type thing just down the road.
Please stop your ignorant attacks on the newer parts of the town.
Now, onto the canal - I have seen the canal in Birmingham many times, its very nice. I have seen the canal in Reading but I didnt go there to see it. If one is rebuilt through Swindon, my objection would be the disruption to our already overwhelmed infrastructure. If that can be sorted out and the locals given assurance that their lives wont be made a misery by the development then great go for it.
Swindon needs regenerating and this is one idea. I actualy think most people are neither in favour or against the idea yet - most just don't want to have their lives blighted by endless building.
fish n nips wrote:
Tobz wrote: 17 years of disruption, demolition and road closures whilst its built and 17 years before it's properly joined to the full network. Until then, its a slowly expanding elongated pond. The question is whether its worth such a long-term investment when there are other more practical things which could be delivered more quickly...?
practical, is that all we want for this town? Im totally for a canal not just on economic grounds but to add some character and identity to our town.. its practical to build lots of cheap house in North Swindon but to me, it all looks the same and in time will become as uninspiring as west Swindon is now. A canal will regenerate a large area and give us something to be proud of.
Frankly, this is offensive. I live in West Swindon and have lived all over the town for the whole 40 years of my life. Where I live there is fantastic neighbourly spirit which I have not encountered anywhere else I have lived in the town. Theres lots of greenery as well as the fantastic Lydiard Park and near me the new Forest and the Peatmor Lagoon. Oh and I think theres a river or a canal type thing just down the road.
Please stop your ignorant attacks on the newer parts of the town.
Now, onto the canal - I have seen the canal in Birmingham many times, its very nice. I have seen the canal in Reading but I didnt go there to see it. If one is rebuilt through Swindon, my objection would be the disruption to our already overwhelmed infrastructure. If that can be sorted out and the locals given assurance that their lives wont be made a misery by the development then great go for it.
Swindon needs regenerating and this is one idea. I actualy think most people are neither in favour or against the idea yet - most just don't want to have their lives blighted by endless building.
Posted by: Robert Feal-Martinez, Swindon on 11:54am Sat 17 May 08
PeeGee, obsessive compulsive behaviour can be treated you know. It really is rather sad that you have such a downer on the only political party that is prepared to stand up for Britain's rights. It's good job more and more people are starting to support us. 54 referrals, arrived in the post this morning alone. As for the canal we've made our position clear.
PeeGee, obsessive compulsive behaviour can be treated you know. It really is rather sad that you have such a downer on the only political party that is prepared to stand up for Britain's rights. It's good job more and more people are starting to support us. 54 referrals, arrived in the post this morning alone. As for the canal we've made our position clear.
Posted by: I Too Could Be a Councillor, Swindon on 3:21pm Sat 17 May 08
I blame Labour ;-)
Posted by: born and bred, Swindon on 1:38am Sun 18 May 08
After seeing the Canals in Birmingham while visiting the NEC ,I Was really impressed and took loads of Photos ,When I heard we might be getting something similar I was pleasently surprised ,I think it would make Swindon a pleasent place to visit .My Father was born and brought up in the midlands ,and I visited Birmingham and Wolverhampton a lot as a child ,And I always looked on it as a grotty run down place,What an improvement ,I can understand the Knockers we have had such a depressing outlook in Swindon for such a long time with our buildins being ripped down and left to rot ,I blame the fact that a lot of people who live in Swindon werent born here ,Councilers included ,they dident have any pride in the place ,Now the new generations that were born here are beginning to sit up and say yes lets make our home town a nice place to live ,and why not, Forget the drunks and baskets we can easily fish them out ,It might stop them vandalising cars on the way home
After seeing the Canals in Birmingham while visiting the NEC ,I Was really impressed and took loads of Photos ,When I heard we might be getting something similar I was pleasently surprised ,I think it would make Swindon a pleasent place to visit .My Father was born and brought up in the midlands ,and I visited Birmingham and Wolverhampton a lot as a child ,And I always looked on it as a grotty run down place,What an improvement ,I can understand the Knockers we have had such a depressing outlook in Swindon for such a long time with our buildins being ripped down and left to rot ,I blame the fact that a lot of people who live in Swindon werent born here ,Councilers included ,they dident have any pride in the place ,Now the new generations that were born here are beginning to sit up and say yes lets make our home town a nice place to live ,and why not, Forget the drunks and baskets we can easily fish them out ,It might stop them vandalising cars on the way home
