'Wolverhampton 21' repair progressing

WORK is progressing on the repair to the damaged lock wall on the lock on the 'Wolverhampton 21', as John Kelly's report shows.

I'm hoping to take a boat down the Wolverhampton 21 during the week when the flight is due to reopen, and having some time on my hands last week I thought I would go and see how the work was progressing.

Extra 10 hours

The alternative via Netherton Tunnel, Stourbridge and Staffs and Worcester canal would take an extra 10 hours or so to reach Aldersley Junction so I'm quite keen to see the flight reopened.

The staff on site, although they couldn't give me any more information about the proposed reopening date, were very helpful, and even took the attached photographs for me.

Not surprised

Looking at the photographs it is possible to get some idea of the thickness of the lock wall and the extent of the work needed to repair it. I am not therefore surprised that the original estimate for completion of the repair has had to be revised. Although there are valid criticisms of CaRT over the state of the canals (including from me) its response to the repair of this lock, as with other emergency repairs, has been thorough.