Trent & Mersey stoppages could be cleared by Christmas break

THE two stoppages at present on the Trent & Mersey Canal could be cleared in time for the Christmas break.

The stoppages are a broken culvert and a collapsed towpath under a bridge that Keith Gudgin reported.

Broken culvert

The broken culvert is between bridges 184 and 185 at Northwich, and we are told the contractors are making good progress, and it is hoped the work will be completed and the pound re-watered in time for the Christmas break.

The further stoppage was caused when the towpath collapsed under Tuppenhurst Bridge (56) at Handsacre but was first delayed by difficulties in achieving an effective seal on one of the fabric dams.

Further delay

Then there was a further delay after it was discovered that there was a section of defective wall which will also need repair whilst the navigation is dewatered.

It is still hoped however that the work will be completed in time for the break.  Dan White's photograph shows the progress of the work last week.