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Pocklington Canal views to be restored

A project to open up views to one of the nation’s most picturesque canals, enabling people to get a better appreciation of its history and wildlife is set to get underway.

The Pocklington Canal

We're launching a project on the Pocklington Canal to remove overgrowth and carry out tree works that will restore views of the popular canal.

The work will also support efforts to improve the status of the canal as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), reducing the level of shading that trees and vegetation cast on the water, and giving a boost to important aquatic plants and other species.

The project is being funded through a £45,000 grant awarded by WREN's FCC Community Action Fund. WREN is a not-for-profit business that awards grants for community, biodiversity and heritage projects from funds donated by FCC Environment through the Landfill Communities Fund.

Make the canal more visible

Jane Thomson, enterprise manager for the Canal & River Trust, said; “We really want people to appreciate the Pocklington Canal, it's a real gem and an important part of the area's history, but in some places it's quite difficult to see from the towpath.

“This project will help to make the canal more visible so that people can gain a greater appreciation and, hopefully, inspire them to visit again and perhaps even get involved in restoration efforts.”

The Pocklington Canal, runs for 9.5 miles between Canal Head, near Pocklington to the River Derwent in East Cottingwith and is a popular location for walkers, bird watchers, anglers and budding photographers.

Virtually the entire length of the canal falls within one of three SSSIs and it is particularly important for aquatic plants, birds, waterfowl, and invertebrates – including thirteen different species of dragonfly and damselfly.

In addition, all nine locks and all four road bridges are Grade II listed making the canal one of the nation's most interesting waterways.

Alistair Anderson of the Pocklington Canal Amenity Society said; “Our members will appreciate this major work to improve the canal above Melbourne, some of which has become overgrown with vegetation and is not as attractive or good for wildlife as it could be."

Last Edited: 02 February 2016

photo of a location on the canals
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