The restored waterway will provide a valuable resource for residents and businesses in Driffield and surrounding villages. Schools and Youth groups will be able to use the Navigation for activities and as an educational resource.

There will be opportunities for local people to be involved in the restoration itself, whether as volunteer labour or by getting involved in associated projects such as wildlife protection or the promotion of an art trail along the Navigation. It is important that those promoting the restoration explore with the community what the local residents want out of the scheme.

It may be appropriate for a local group to run a community barge, either as a static exhibition or as a mobile activity centre.

In addition, there are proposals to create a high quality pedestrian route between River Head and Driffield Town Centre. Atkins see this as a key project for community involvement, with residents influencing the route, the design and any public open spaces or sculptures along the route,

Management systems

With regard to management, It is essential that the Driffield Navigation Trust is robust yet accountable.

Therefore, it is recommended to create new vertical structures that substantiate the functions of the Driffield Navigation Trust, including the creation of a Steering Group, to give the Trusts activities and decisions the necessary accountability. A Canal Manager should be recruited to implement the decisions of the Commissioners and to initiate routine operations.

There is also an argument for subcontracting the operational management to an organization that is proficient in maintenance duties. The role of the local government in the project is, at present, unclear.
The majority of the restoration work could be completed by professional contractors tendered by the Canal Manager, with operation and maintenance being the responsibility of the Commissioners, primarily through the Canal Manager by contractors. However, it will be necessary to consider the legal implications of any voluntary work carried out as there would be liability concerns.

For the Navigation to be successful in its new function, an effective set of byelaws will be required that are enforceable, take account of modern uses, mutually reinforce other legislation and that can be implemented by the Driffield Navigation Trust.