West Berkshire Council, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, the Canal & River Trust and Greenham Trust are partnering on a long-term scheme called 'Reimagining the Kennet and Avon Waterside' to make the route more accessible for everyone.
The initial phase focuses on the stretch between Newbury football ground on Faraday Road and Goldwell Park.
Planned works include an upgrade to a 220-metre section of the existing path carrying the National Cycle Network near the football ground, led by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust using external funding; remedial towpath and bank works between Town Bridge and Victoria Park by West Berkshire Council; and improved signing on Northcroft Lane as part of the council's capital programme.
These add to recent projects in the district, including 2.4km of widened, resurfaced towpath between Aldermaston Wharf and Ufton Lane, and over a kilometre of resurfaced route between Mill Road at Burghfield and Hissey's Bridge near Calcot.
The partnership is refining a future work programme and fundraising strategy to upgrade other waterside sections in Newbury, Thatcham and Calcot. The aim is a more robust, accessible towpath for anglers, boaters, considerate cyclists using National Cycle Network route 4, walkers with differing mobility, and general enjoyment.
Justin Pemberton (Lib Dem, Thatcham West), West Berkshire Council's executive member for community engagement, economic development and regeneration, devolution and local government reorganisation, said: "Our canals are an important part of Newbury's identity.
"They bring people together, support wildlife, and create valuable green spaces for everyone to enjoy.
"The work we are carrying out along the canal is helping to protect this historic environment, improve access, and keep the area safe and welcoming.
"By investing in our waterways, we are safeguarding a key part of Newbury's future and ensuring it can be enjoyed for many years to come."
Kierson Wise, National Cycle Network programme manager at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust said: "The National Cycle Network plays a pivotal role in connecting local communities to the outdoors and the things that matter most to them.
"The Kennet and Avon Waterway is at the heart of an important route, steeped in history, that stretches from London all the way to Wales.
"We're pleased to be working with partners to make this a safe and accessible place for people to walk, wheel and cycle, while opening up a beautiful corridor along this historic route."
Rob Daniels, head of grants at Greenham Trust said: "Greenham Trust is very pleased to be involved in this partnership, as improving quality of life across all areas of West Berkshire remains central to our mission.
"The Kennet and Avon Canal is a valuable local asset, offering accessible opportunities for people of all ages to stay active, connect with nature, and support their wellbeing.
"It also plays an important role in enhancing local biodiversity and the character of the area, making it a cherished resource for our communities.
We welcome these improvements and look forward to continuing to work closely with our partners into the future."
Simon Papprill, national partnerships manager at Canal & River Trust said: "The Kennet and Avon Canal meanders through Newbury, bringing boats, visitors and wildlife to the local area while offering an important active travel route for walkers and cyclists along the National Cycle Network.
"The canal is there to be enjoyed by everyone and for over two centuries has been a key feature of the town and surrounding area so we are delighted to be working with these fantastic partners to further enhance this attractive waterside corridor and open it up so all can benefit for many years to come."
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
