Vital canal repairs start in Loughborough

The work is expected to last for around 12 weeks.

The charity is rebuilding a section of canal wall and towpath running under Little Moor Lane.

In order to fully assess the damage to the wall, which is submerged in water, the canal will be drained in the affected area with temporary dams put in place. Once exposed, specialist teams will fully assess the wall before the repair work is carried out.

Works started at the end of January and are expected to last for around 12 weeks. The project has received a contribution from UK Government through the Loughborough Town Deal, with the Trust funding the remainder.

Alan Leather, partnerships & funding manager for the Canal & River Trust, said: “With more boats on the water than at the height of the Industrial Revolution, and our towpaths more popular than ever, it’s imperative that we carry out works like this to protect our historic waterways.

“Built more than 200 years ago, our historic waterways need constant care and, as a charity, our expert teams and dedicated volunteers are working all year round to keep our canals alive. We’re really grateful that Town Deal funding is helping with the project, enabling us to make sure the canal is safe, accessible and protected for boaters and the local community.”

Martin Traynor OBE, Loughborough Town Deal chair, said: “I’m pleased to see further improvements and extra investment for the canal in Loughborough as part of the Canal & River Trust project which has received funding through Loughborough Town Deal.

“It is important that the canal towpath is at both the highest standard and accessible for residents and boaters who use the stretch of water for both pleasure and commuting and this work is ensuring that continues.”