Canal fully open again

Here's the news that all Audlem businesses and narrow boat owners have been waiting for since mid-August.

British Waterways announced today: “The navigation has re-opened to craft this morning. Boaters are advised that there is no mooring between Shebdon Wharf and Bridge 45 due to the presence of workboats. Boaters are advised to exercise caution and adhere to local warning signs whilst passing along this section of canal.

The towpath will remain closed (at Shebdon) for the next two weeks whilst the contractor removes equipment and reinstates the towpath.”

Let's hope the October half-term break brings boats back in good numbers.

The canal closure has been an all too severe reminder of the importance of tourism to the local economy in Audlem. As a result, Audlem Online will be running a series of stories promoting local shops, pubs and cafes over the coming weeks.

The big news is that three new shops are opening very shortly and that new licensees are taking over the Lord Combermere in a matter of days. More on all these developments on Audlem Online.

The new shops will mean Audlem has more shops now than in a generation or longer. Some have expanded such as Boots and the Co-operative Food Store. Others have re-opened in recent years after a period of closure, such as the Mill Shop.

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