Colin Goodhind surveys the weir which could be removed (17115/2)A TOWN councillor has quit amid claims his colleagues are blinded by prejudicial views over the future of a multi-million pound canal project.

Cllr Colin Goodhind (Lib Dem) has handed his letter of resignation to Melksham Town Council as he thinks fellow members are unwilling to support the idea of taking the Wilts and Berks Canal through the town centre.

Canal supporters say there is no doubt the £100m project will happen after British Waterways gave its approval.

It could mean the canal flowing into the River Avon through the town centre, which supporters insist would bring more tourism revenue to Melksham.

Cllr Goodhind, who represents the Spa ward, said his decision was made after the canal partnership's project officer Chaloner Chute was given a grilling by councillors last month.

"I am not saying they should have wholeheartedly supported the way the canal would take shape but I don't feel the town council and its members have put aside personal feelings and done the right thing by the town," he said. "Everything that comes up about the canal is met with suspicion.

"Chaloner was there to answer questions put to him and that still didn't stop old views and old criticisms and personal opinions coming up. That made my decision."

A £35,000 study will begin later this year to look at how the canal could link-up with the river, which would mean the removal of the weir.

The Wilts and Berks Canal Trust, which is a member of the partnership group including district and county councils, said Melksham was the last part of the jigsaw.

Chairman Ken Oliver said: "We were hoping the town itself and its residents would embrace the idea of having something really exciting to look at in the town centre.

Mr Oliver said there was no point putting the proposal to the public until the nuts and bolts had been decided.

Cllr Goodhind fellow Lib Dem Cllr Adrienne Westbrook said: "It is sad he has come to this decision. The best way to solve the issue is to stay on the council."

Cllr Goodhind could be offered a post as director on community organisation Melksham 1st, which is set to become a non-profit making company on June 14.