Canal Trust receives grant for benches at Whitehouse Wharf

The Dulverton Trust Fund, managed by the Heart of England Community Foundation, recently awarded a grant to fund benches for the elderly and disabled to sit and relax by the water, at Whitehouse Wharf in Selly Oak.

The Dulverton Trust is an independent grant-making charity which supports UK charities tackling a range of social issues, protecting the natural world, and preserving heritage crafts.

Whitehouse Wharf is situated next to the SENSE HQ building and will be a popular destination for the disabled, shoppers and students.

Sajda Atiq, SENSE day manager said: “Having a place to sit outside with a scenic view, being able to hear the water, watch the ripples, wave to the boaters going by or even just sitting and feeling the breeze or sunshine is brilliant for disabled people with sensory impairments. It gives them the chance to be outdoors and enjoy life. “

The Glasdon bench seat is made from recycled materials. Made with cast aluminium ends and composite slats, it should require very little maintenance.

The beautiful benches are the finishing touch to the Wharf recently completed by Land and Water Ltd and funded by many donations to the Lapal Canal Trust. The Trust is seeking funding for the next stage across Sainsbury 's car park and under Harborne Lane Bridge.

The seats were installed by Lapal Canal Trust volunteers, with a particular thanks to Denis who prepared the concrete bases and bolted the benches down securely, and volunteers who helped and also tested the final result.

The Trust has started a Just Giving Fundraising Campaign to open the Harborne Lane Tunnel. Please follow the link to find out more and donate if you can.