Dunsfold Park Ltd have agreed with the Wey & Arun Canal Trust to fund development of a three-dimensional computer model of an important section of the canal. The Trust will use the computer model to develop an engineering design that can accurately assess the quantities of silt to be removed, establish the original towpath, reinstate the long forgotten 'Compasses Wharf' and restore the canal to a navigable standard.

The section of the canal between the Compasses pub at Alfold and Tickners Heath has lain largely untouched for decades, gradually filling up with leaves and silt. There was also some unwelcome infilling during the Second World War, when there was a need to move vehicles and aircraft across the canal. The canal provides a haven for wildlife, so any future proposals will have to include wildlife habitat surveys and a managed approach to preserving ecological assets. An adjoining section, between the Compasses and Fastbridge (the A281) was dredged by British Aerospace in 1992 and since then the Trust have restored Farnhurst Bridge and kept the canal clear.

For the technically minded, the computer modelling software is 'MX', which is normally used for roads but easily adapts to canal design. The model supplies computer generated drawings, using licensed Ordnance Survey maps. It accurately calculates quantities and cross-sectional data, in such a way that the exact amounts of material to be dredged and removed are known.

This is the essential first stage of a design process that will enable the section to be fully dredged and restored, with Trust volunteers putting together the engineering design and solutions. When the day comes to carry out construction, it is hoped that Dunsfold Park will be able to process the silt removed from the canal, keeping it on their land as useable composting material, thereby avoiding the need to remove spoil by road.

Long before the canal becomes fully navigable, it is hoped that with the co-operation of landowners such as Dunsfold Park, the canal towpath will be available for public use. There is nothing more pleasant than a quiet stroll along the canal side, enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of long established flora and fauna.

The section near Dunsfold Park forms part of the summit level of the Wey & Arun Canal on its 23-mile route from the River Wey at Shalford, near Guildford, to the River Arun near Pulborough. The summit level (162 feet above sea level) runs from Rowly, near Cranleigh, to Sidney Wood, near Dunsfold. The Wey & Arun Canal Trust's objective is to restore the whole of the historic canal route, which is part of the only inland waterway link between the River Thames and the south coast.