To facilitate the works, the canal has been temporarily closed to through-navigation from the junction with the Leek Branch (Hazlehurst Junction), running south east to Cheddleton Lock, but is due to reopen on Thursday 6 April 2023 after a short two-week delay.
A complicated structure
Ian Bogges, our project manager, explains: “Repairs to the canal wall on the southern side of the bridge have taken slightly longer than expected as they have been more complex than we had planned prior to the start of the physical construction works. However, they will be completed and the canal back open for boating in time for the Easter weekend.
“The overall project to restore Hazlehurst Bridge is still on track to be completed this summer. The towpath will remain closed from the junction with the Leek Branch (Hazlehurst Junction), running south east to Hazlehurst Aqueduct until mid-July. The Public Right of way on the access pathway towards the bridge from Leek Old Road will also be closed for the duration of the works. Footpath and towpath diversion signs are in place.”
An accommodating bridge
Hazlehurst Bridge is an accommodation bridge that provides access across the Caldon Canal for farmers, residents and liveaboard boaters. It also provides access for maintenance work.
The bridge was irreparably damaged in March 2020 following the draining of the canal upstream for repairs to Hazlehurst Bottom Lock. we are rebuilding the structure, matching its former location, form, scale, and character, including using many of the original stone copings.
