Peak Forest finally re-opens

THE Peak Forest Canal that was closed way back in March owing to a 'leak', was re-opened this morning—Monday.

The engineers investigating the problem discovered a line of masonry that was not shown on the plans, and had collapsed, causing the water to drain away.  It is not known what it was, though suspected it may have been a culvert, Keith Gudgin tells us.

Drain away

It was when piles were being driven in that the structure was further disturbed allowing water to drain away under a road and into adjoining property.

This structure has now been completely removed and the aperture filled with puddle clay to seal the canal.  The delay was exacerbated by not having the right length of stop planks, so new ones had to be obtained to hold back the water whilst the work was carried out.