A stretch of the Montgomery Canal in Shropshire has reopened for boating and other users, marking the completion of the next phase of its restoration.
More than 85 years after it closed, a one-and-a-half-mile section of canal between Maesbury and Crickheath has now reopened thanks to the support of volunteers and funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.The Montgomery Canal closed in the 1930s following a serious breach near Frankton Locks in Shropshire. At a time of dwindling freight traffic, rather than being repaired the canal was officially closed in 1944.
Along the newly restored section, boaters can now navigate from Frankton Locks, where it meets the Llangollen Canal, to Crickheath Basin. The route around Welshpool is restored but this is not yet connected to the rest of the system. “There is still plenty of work to do with the volunteers starting on the next phase of the restoration from Crickheath Basin to Schoolhouse Bridge as well as the restoration of the canal in Wales which is being funded by the Government’s Levelling Up Fund. As a charity with increasing cost pressures, it’s important we secure external investment to help us restore, protect, and preserve our historic waterways to ensure that we don’t see the decline that took place in the early 20th Century.
John Dodwell, chair of the Montgomery Canal Partnership, said: “It’s marvellous to see put into place another part of the jigsaw to restore the 200 years plus old Montgomery Canal. It’s special built and natural heritage offers so much to local people and more widely; both donations and volunteers come from many parts of the country. The restored canal is also a boost to the regional tourist industry as visitors come to the area to spend their money.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
South Shropshire man avoids jail after admitting three counts of making indecent images of childrenHe is restricted in his use of computer equipment, must report to the police any time he acquires any such device and not delete search history.
Read more »
Anger at prospect beds could never return to Shropshire hospital as public meeting is calledThe potential permanent closure of beds at a Shropshire community hospital has been met with anger by residents, patients and councillors.
Read more »
Housing estate for Shropshire border village approved - with affordable homes includedPlans to build a housing estate that will include affordable homes have been given the green light by county planners.
Read more »
Bridgnorth Enigma: Decoding Hitler's interest in a Shropshire townA new book exploring a Shropshire market town's role in the Second World War is being launched on Saturday.
Read more »
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flying over Shropshire today as part of WW2 anniversaryHistoric Second World War planes are set to fly over Shropshire at lunchtime today.
Read more »
Crash involving motorcyclist closes road near BridgnorthA motorcyclist has crashed outside a National Trust property in south Shropshire.
Read more »