THE Bridgewater Canal repair programme following the New Year’s Day 2025 breach at Little Bollington has now moved into its next phase, with stabilisation works nearing completion and the formal design process for reinstating the embankment now underway.
SLR Consulting appointed as principal consultant
As part of this progression, SLR Consulting has been appointed as principal consultant to lead on the design and project management of the reinstatement, following a competitive tender process.
Stabilisation works reduce unnavigable section
Since January last year, extensive work has been undertaken to protect and secure the canal. Temporary dams, stoplogs, and embankment support have stabilised the site, and the unnavigable stretch has been reduced to under half a mile.
Geo-environmental investigation confirms soil safety
In September, the adjoining landowner, the National Trust, released a geo-environmental site investigation, undertaken with guidance from Cheshire East Council and the Environment Agency. The report confirmed: “Testing showed that the flood-affected soils at the site do not pose a risk to human health from chemical or microbiological sources.”
Specialist surveys inform design process
This enabled full access for specialist surveys, which have now been completed. The results are informing the design process which is underway.
Ecological surveys and construction timeline
Further targeted ecological and environmental surveys will take place in the coming weeks. Once finalised, these will allow the contractor procurement process to begin. Subject to the outcomes of ecological surveys and engineering design, the Bridgewater Canal Company envisages construction work to begin this summer, with completion by the end of the year.
Commitment to restoring navigation
Peter Parkinson, managing director of the Bridgewater Canal Company, said: “We recognise how important the canal is to boaters, local residents and the wider Cheshire Ring. We are pleased to have appointed SLR Consulting as principal consultant; their extensive experience in civil infrastructure and canal projects will be invaluable as we move into the next phase of these complex repairs. We remain committed to restoring navigation and will continue to keep everyone updated as plans develop.”
For more details, visit bridgewatercanal.co.uk
