Last year’s summer drought led to a surprise benefit for Macclesfield Canal users as it meant winter restoration work was completed early.
The drought conditions brought a number of challenges for the canal system, but the temporary closure of parts of the waterway – due to water shortages – meant a major £200,000 repair project could be brought forward.
Macclesfield Canal includes a number of impressive locks along the Bosley Flight and it was due to close for several weeks in November for essential repairs to the lock’s chambers.
The repairs were funded by the Canal and River Trust, and were completed early while the locks were required to close in summer due to the low water levels.
This also minimised the inconvenience to boaters and gave the opportunity to carry out other jobs.
Secretary of the Macclesfield Canal Society, Duncan Learmond recently met with local MP David Rutley to discuss the work and show off a series of initiatives that have been completed along the canal.
Macclesfield Canal Society was able to painted many of the locks, as well as building and installing bird boxes – which has seen an increase in kingfishers and woodpeckers in the area.
The team has also been busy laying hedges, using a heritage technique which creates much-needed habitats for small birds.
These improvements were achieved through the hard work and collaboration of the Canal and River Trust, the Macclesfield Canal Society and local volunteers.
In 2015, Macclesfield Canal was presented with a Green Flag Award, the first canal in the world to receive the prestigious award.
It recognises the work that has been done along the canal to promote well-maintained and clean green spaces, as well as community action to promote ecological policies and sustainable approaches.
The Green Flag award has also been awarded to the canal every year since the initial award.
Mr Rutley said: “We are very lucky to have Macclesfield Canal on our doorstep.
“It is great to see how Macclesfield Canal Society has been very busy supporting the repairs of local locks, and also protecting the surrounding habitats and improving walk ways.
“The work the society has been doing to maintain their Green Flag award status is highly commendable and I hope more local residents and businesses will join in future plans to further improve this great local community asset.”
More information can be found via Macclesfield Canal Society’s website or by email.
