Descriptions
Update 13/06/2025 11:20
We're pleased to share a further update on the ongoing repairs following the breach on the Macclesfield Canal earlier this year.
We've now successfully rebuilt the damaged embankment using compacted puddle clay and suitable excavated material. This is a significant milestone, as it restores the structural integrity of the canal and helps to ensure its long-term stability.
Our teams are currently installing trench sheets along the towpath side of the canal. These metal sheet piles are being driven into the ground to reinforce the canal edge, providing additional support and protecting the embankment from future erosion.
To confirm that we remain on track to reopen the canal to navigation on 25 June, provided no unforeseen issues arise.
However, while navigation will resume, the towpath will need to remain closed for approximately one further week. This is to allow us to safely remove temporary access ramps, construction materials, and fencing that have been in place during the works. Keeping the towpath closed during this final phase helps protect public safety and ensures that the site can be cleared efficiently.
Even after both the canal and towpath are fully reopened, you may still see our teams working in the area throughout July. These remaining tasks are part of our finishing works and include hedge planting, installing new boundary fencing, topsoiling, and repairs to the culvert headwall.
We understand that these closures may have caused some disruption, and we're grateful for everyone's understanding, we look forward to welcoming boaters and towpath users back.
Our next update will be on or before 24 June 2025
Update 23/05/2025 15:40
Works are progressing well on site. Since our last update, our contractors have completed the construction of an access track and established a site compound near the breach location. This was an important milestone to enable the safe delivery of plant and materials.
Excavation works to the embankment, towpath, and canal bed have now been completed. This has allowed our engineers to finalise the repair designs.
We are pleased to confirm that repair and reinstatement works are now underway. We're aiming to reopen the canal on 25th June. While this may be subject to change due to the unique challenges that come with a repair of this scale, our teams are doing everything they can to stay on track.
We will provide a further update on or before 13th June.
Update 01/05/2025 10:11
Since our last update, we are pleased to share that we have successfully reached agreements with neighbouring landowners to gain access to the breach site. Work is set to begin next week on creating an access track and site compound.
We have also successfully installed temporary dams and started transferring water through the breach site. This is helping us manage water resources and maintain the canal levels.
Our teams have put together a repair plan, with a few final details still to be confirmed. Based on our initial repair plan, we are expecting the canal to be reopened for navigation on 20 June.
We will keep you updated and share more details with you on or before 23rd May.
This notice was originally posted on an old system which has now been upgraded, the original description and latest update have been transferred here. To view any historical updates related to this notice, please click here.
Original 01/05/2025 10:10
Original message issued 28 March 2025:
Due to a leak in the canal bed, we have closed navigation and the towpath between Bridge 52, Crowholt Bridge and Bridge 53, Locketts Bridge on the Macclesfield Canal.
Our teams are currently on-site installing stop planks to enable a thorough inspection of the leak. We are also contacting customers moored in the affected area.
