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Trent & Mersey missing link found

20th Oct 2005

Work has begun on the 2 kilometre ‘missing link’ Trent & Mersey Canal towpath between Newport Lane, Middleport and the Festival Park’s China Gardens.

This is the latest phase in the ambitious British Waterways led project. It will see a total of 17 km of towpath restored, creating a recreational ‘greenway’ that will link communities throughout the city.
This work will complete the links between Longport and Middleport to the north and Etruria Junction to the south.

This £200,000 part of the scheme is being undertaken by W E Parsons and will take around 12 weeks to complete. The entire £5.5m project is funded by North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone, Advantage West Midlands, British Waterways and European Regional Development Fund.

British Waterways Wales & Border Counties senior project engineer, Darren Green, said the three year project was now entering its final stages.
“Completing this length means just 3 kilometres of towpath improvement works now remain.”

“While the towpath closure will involve some short term inconvenience but we are asking that communities look at the very real and long lasting benefits this project will bring once it is completed,” he added.

Towpath improvements will include:

  • Construction of an all weather surface 1.5m width offering a safe multi-user environment along the canal;
  • Grassed area is to be introduced at the rear of the existing coping edge, providing a wider area for anglers to enjoy their sport;
  • Installation of mooring rings along the length near Festival Park so customers can benefit from its attractions.

The rejuvenated towpath is adjacent to the former Corus site which has undergone a transformation following demolition of its redundant manufacturing sheds.

British Waterways has worked closely with the Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder scheme throughout to ensure these works compliment the long term vision for the area.

Last updated: 22/10/2008