AddThis SmartLayers

Weekly launches bid to revive ‘buried’ river in centre of patch

A weekly newspaper has demanded the resurfacing of a river currently hidden under concrete through much of the centre of its patch.

The Bucks Free Press has called for the reopening of the River Wye through the middle of High Wycombe after polling readers on the topic.

The river is currently invisible in parts of High Wycombe town centre after being buried “in dark and dank concrete culverts” during the 1960s.

Reopening the river through the town centre would cost an estimate £3m, but it has previously been claimed the local economy could see £7 brought in in return for every £1 spent on the project.

An artist's impression of how part of the revived river could look

An artist’s impression of how part of the revived river could look

The BFP’s campaign has been launched after a survey of readers revealed 95pc backed the plan.

Audience and content editor Stephanie Wareham wrote in an accompanying column: “At a time where local businesses are just starting to reopen following the devastating coronavirus pandemic, we think now is the time to be investing in our town centre and helping it thrive in the way it thoroughly deserves.

“Café culture, outdoor dining and street entertainment is on the up as town centre managers look for ways to entice people back to the amazing shops, bars and restaurants High Wycombe boasts after a dreadful year.

“And what better way to encourage visitors – both tourists and residents alike – than by providing a sparkling river, full of wildlife and nature, to marvel at as they relax and sample the delights local eateries have to offer?

“Not only would this help make High Wycombe a real destination – the abundance of wildlife that calls the River Wye its home would no doubt be grateful.”