READING the article in the Guardian, where a pressure group is protesting over the actions of British Waterways and its policy over the use of the River Weaver for industrial purposes, reminds me of the arguments raised when this country's motorways began to expand and manufacturers moved their goods from rail to roads.

Economic advantage was gained due to the fact that rail charges were higher because the railway cost a lot more to maintain because of its technical nature.

The same criteria existed for water transport, and waterways also became under used leaving the roads as top dog for this country's movement of goods.

The River Weaver was built for the good of the residents of Mid Cheshire in the 18th century.

The revenues raised from its use helped to build County Hall and maintain roads and bridges throughout Cheshire.

There were five shipyards in Winsford at the turn of this century.

Indeed the biggest vessel built on the Weaver, The Monarch was launched at Winsford, never to return because of its size.

There were also two shipyards in Northwich, who carried on the tradition of shipbuilding until near recent times.

The uncoordinated approach to this country's transportation system can only be blamed on the politicians who have, since 1945, made all the wrong decisions.

The EU countries of mainland Europe have coordinated traffic programmes, and it is a pleasure of motor and rail through the countries that boarder the North Sea, all good vehicles are banned from Friday midnight to Sunday midnight, the only ones seen are riding piggy back on the railway stock provided.

When are our politicians going to wake up.

ALAN RAVENSCROFT

Station Road, Winsford.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.