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Leeds & Liverpool Canal Towpath Improvements Between Chorley and Adlington (Spring 2010)

Improvements underway on Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath by British Waterways in partnership with Natural England and Lancashire County Council

Work is about to start to improve a popular stretch of towpath along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, between Chorley and Adlington.

Two kilometres of towpath will be re-surfaced and widened to two metres creating a multi user route. Other key improvements include upgrades to washwalls and enhancement of access points to the canal, creating an improved towpath for all users to enjoy.

During the construction works, which are estimated to last until April, the towpath will be closed to pedestrian access. However, as the work is being undertaken in sections, when each section is completed it will be re-opened to the general public. Diversion notices will be on display where appropriate.

The project, which will cost over £250k, is being funded through a joint partnership between Natural England (through Defra’s Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund (ALSF) - The Aggregates Levy is a tax on the production of primary aggregates of sand, gravel and crushed rock used, for example, in the construction industry. Introduced in 2002), Lancashire County Council and British Waterways.

Natural England is involved here to conserve and enhance the natural environment, for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people and the economic prosperity that it brings.

Steve Higham, regeneration project manager for British Waterways said: “The Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath between Chorley and Adlington is particularly well used by a range of users, including walkers, cyclists and runners. This partnership approach will help to deliver real improvements to a multi-user route so more people can benefit from all that the waterways can offer.

"This scheme is the latest in a series of towpath upgrades and we're keen to continue this progress by working with a range of user groups and local authorities to expand the mileage available to our users."