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Connect2 projects improve Rochdale Canal towpath

22nd Jul 2010

A celebratory bike ride between Smithybridge and the Summit of the Rochdale Canal is being held at 6pm on Wednesday 28 July to mark the completion of a first phase of towpath resurfacing work.

Through the multi-million pound Connect2 and Connect 2 plus projects, the towpath from Sladen via Littleborough and Smithybridge to Clegg Hall has been upgraded. There is now a continuous stretch of all-weather towpath from Sladen to Castleton, giving year round access to the Rochdale Canal for many more people for leisure, visiting and commuting.

Funding for the towpath resurfacing came from the South Pennines LEADER programme and Connect2, the Sustrans Big Lottery project. Connect2 aims to link all the townships of Rochdale Borough (Rochdale, Pennines, Heywood & Middleton), Kingsway Business Park and Oldham together through a network of largely off road cycling and walking routes.

Lucy Rogers, Rochdale Canal Development Manager for The Waterways Trust welcomes the improvements, "The completion of this resurfacing work marks a major stage in the project to connect the four townships of Rochdale borough. These improvements mean that walkers and cyclists can now use the canal towpath throughout the year.

"Use the canal towpath throughout the year"

"The guided cycle ride is part of the Rochdale Canal Festival. We hope as many people as possible will use the Festival as an opportunity to discover all that the canal has to offer. The bike ride is a great opportunity to celebrate the completion of this work and enjoy a summer’s evening ride along the towpath."

The evening canal and road cycle ride will start at Smithy Bridge rail station car park, Rochdale at 6pm on Wednesday 28 July. The ride is open to everyone aged 9 years and over. All participants must be used to cycling and children must be accompanied by an adult. Bike loan is available for adults. Places on the bike ride must be booked in advance, contact Seamus Kelly on 01706 922 055.

Last updated: 22/07/2010

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