Contractors have installed temporary dams in the canal on either side of the collapsed towpath between bridges 108a and 109 on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. A programme of work will now begin to stabilise the embankment, re-line the canal bed and re-construct the towpath and wash wall. The culvert, which runs under the canal, will also be re-lined to extend its life for another 100 years.
Investigating
Chantelle Seaborn, waterway manager for the Canal & River Trust, explains: “The Leeds & Liverpool Canal is an extremely popular canal for hundreds of boaters, walkers and cyclists who use it every day. We appreciate that this is a major disruption for people who enjoy the towpath but most especially for any boaters that are trying to get back to their home moorings, so time really is of the essence.”
Engineers are still investigating the cause of the embankment collapsed. Initial findings suggest erosion has caused huge sink holes in the canal bed affecting a 16 x18 metre area.
We are working hard to re-open the canal as quickly as possible. The canal is on-course to re-open at the end of November subject to weather conditions. The repairs are likely to cost around £300,000.
Boaters who are affected and want advice on diversions or local moorings can contact us on 03030 404040.
