A LONG-TERM strategy for Bude Canal and marshes was the topic for discussion at a meeting of Bude's Cornwall Councillors, senior council members and local organisations.

Cllrs David Parsons and Nigel Pearce spoke with portfolio holders Edwina Hannaford, for environment, heritage and planning, and Julian German, for economy and culture.

Cllr Parsons organised the meeting following complaints from canal users that Cornwall Council was 'ignoring' the canal.

Two issues included the sale of land at Higher Wharf and Rodd's Bridge, which stops boats going further up the canal.

Replacing the bridge for cars would cost a substantial amount — a wooden footbridge would be cheaper, but consultations would need to be set up to look into closing the road.

During the day the councillors and portfolio members met various local groups involved in the Higher Wharf Action Group (HiWAG) to discuss concerns about the future of the canal and the council-owned land at Higher Wharf.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.