SPRING of next year is the target date for the opening of the Trent & Mersey Canal at its breach at Dutton, but the repair at Croxton should be completed by Christmas.
A water supply has now been established to the isolated section between bridges 179 and 210, ensuring that this section of the canal remains navigable, Ralph Freeman tells us.
During this week it is also hoped that a supply can be fed to Bridge 211 to re-water the canal, to be able to re-float the boats that are trapped there, which will allow the winding hole to be used.
Trapped boats
There are 20 boats trapped whose owners are wanting to use the Manchester Ship Canal to get away from the Trent & Mersey, with the Canal & River Trust attempting to make arrangements, that will of course involve discussions as to their equipment and safety, but could be possible.
A spokesman for CaRT tells us that it wants to ensure that boaters wanting to leave the area, and not be caught in the stoppages, are able to do so.
Progress
Work has started at both sites, though at the main breach at Dutton, it is just a review by the geo-technical team of the site and a ground investigation to decide the type of repair that would be suitable. The actual completion date cannot really be stated, but it is hoping to be Spring next year, but no promise that it will be in time for the start of the boating season.
At Croxton a temporary access road has been constructed together with a temporary dam to prevent water loss at the damaged embankment. Trees have been cleared, and here again work is related to the design of the repair.