Restoration of Salford canal reaches major milestone

The project is the first, and most challenging, phase in the restoration of the 15.2-mile long canal, which is one of the last major waterways in Greater Manchester to be restored. The £5.9 million project, led by British Waterways and funded by Northwest European Regional Development Fund (through Manchester Enterprises), Salford City Council, North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA) and Valley & Vale Properties Ltd, represents the focal point for the £600 million regeneration of this part of Salford.

The Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal was built under an Act of 1791 with the connection to the River Irwell constructed in 1808. Originally used to transport coal and cotton to the many mines and mills of the area, the canal adapted to carry passengers, post and other supplies. The canal has been closed to through traffic since a major breach in 1936 and various sections were drained during the Second World War. It was finally abandoned in 1961, however the dream of its eventual revival was kept alive by the Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal Society formed in 1987.

"This is a tremendously exciting step towards the final restoration of the Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal," says Robin Evans, chief executive of British Waterways which is leading the restoration. "The canal once played a major role in the life and economy of the north west. It is a tribute to the efforts of the canal society and to our funding partners that it will soon be able to do so again."

Peter White, executive director of development for NWDA comments: "The NWDA is delighted to support this exciting development, which will deliver a range of benefits to the region, enhancing the environment and quality of life, increasing tourism, and creating areas where people want to live and work."

The first phase of the canal restoration is due for completion this summer.