Audlem project ensures boaters locked on course

Work has begun on a £500,000 project that will secure long term boating access along the Audlem section of the Shropshire Union Canal.

The work is necessary to restore the embankment between Locks 13 and 14 in Audlem which is in danger of collapse, while the towpath and wash walls are gradually sinking. British Waterways Wales & Border Counties Project Manager David Thorne said the work would secure the future passage through one of the best used stretches of waterway in the country.

"The Shropshire Union Canal is one of the key north south holiday routes, with over 11,000 boat journeys annually through Audlem Locks," said David.

"Audlem is an increasingly important destination in itself. It has popular waterside public houses and extensive moorings. The site is also the southern gateway to the Weaver Valley Regional Park, so it attracts thousands of walkers annually," he added.

The waterway is closed during the work to allow removal of original stone masonry wash wall blocks from the canal bed. The canal will be open once again to boaters in time for the new season.

The work involves installation of slope drains and long structural piling to strengthen the embankment, along with reinstatement of the towpath. A temporary pedestrian route runs along the offside of the canal during the work. The established towpath will then be resurfaced, with the area landscaped to complete the project.

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