A major 'leak'

THE 'leak' that occurred in the bank of the Rochdale Canal at Sowerby Bridge before Christmas has turned into a major operation, with it being admitted that the waterway will be closed until Easter whilst repair work is undertaken.

It was the lowering of the water level in the canal that first alerted boaters to the problem that it was draining away, and the Canal & River Trust being alerted.

Breach

The 'leak' was discovered that turned out to be a breach in the canal bank at High Royd, and we are now told that 'extensive work is required to repair the canal bank'.

Though the water was further lowered, the pound needs completely draining for work to start, so the fish first need to be removed. This is being undertaken by a specialist fish rescue team that will transfer them further along the waterway to an unaffected pound.

Concrete wall

The repairs are estimated at £345,000 and will involve building a new concrete wall in front of the breach, together with additional maintenance work.

Work has now started.