A 5-year partnership to improve, protect and also promote the River Nene as a nationally-renowned destination for boaters has been launched.

Eastern Daily Press: A project to improve, protect and also promote boating tourism on the River Nene has been launched. Picture: P UptonA project to improve, protect and also promote boating tourism on the River Nene has been launched. Picture: P Upton (Image: P Upton)

The Nenescape programme, which was launched with a £2.6m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, will see 16 projects carried out by 11 organisations.

The scheme will invest more than £4.4m in the Nene Valley over the next five years, delivering projects that will improve access to the water, restore wetland and wildlife habitat and develop tourism.

Amanda Johnson, Nenescape project manager, said: 'It is so important to create an inviting environment for boaters to enjoy the spectacular views and heritage offered along the Nene Valley and, equally, to maintain a healthy environment for wildlife to thrive in.

'We are pleased to be working with the Environment Agency to deliver these complementary projects and look forward to seeing the benefits for years to come.'

Eastern Daily Press: A project to improve, protect and also promote boating tourism on the River Nene has been launched. Picture: Archant LibraryA project to improve, protect and also promote boating tourism on the River Nene has been launched. Picture: Archant Library (Image: Archant)

Initiatives include boosting the river's reputation as a destination for boaters.

Led by the Environment Agency, this part of Nenescape project will improve access to and from the navigable part of the river, provide better facilities for those cruising it, and make the most of nearby transport links, communities and attractions.

A total of £500,000 has been allocated to this part of the scheme.

Proposals include additional moorings, better routes and access for canoeing, improved links with nearby footpaths and cycleways, and more information for visitors about the area's attractions.

It is hoped this part of the Nenescape programme will attract more boaters and other visitors to the area, boosting the local economy.

Candy Reed, partnership officer for the Environment Agency, said: 'The River Nene is one of the nation's greatest rivers – we're delighted to be playing a part in its future.

'Our work – and that of the wider Nenescape programme – will help everyone get the most out of this stunning location, which really is a national treasure.'

At 91 miles, the Nene is the 10th longest river in the UK. It flows through Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire, borders Norfolk and ends at The Wash. Around 65 miles of it is navigable.