Leeds & Liverpool Canal celebrates Green Flag status

THE Canal & River Trust is celebrating after a new 35-mile section of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal between Stanley Lock Flight and Wigan Top Lock has been awarded Green Flag Status.

Now in their third decade, the prestigious Keep Britain Tidy awards are given to outdoor spaces that boast the highest possible environmental standards, are beautifully maintained, and have excellent visitor facilities.

The presentation of this award marks a remarkable transformation of the Liverpool end of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, which only two decades ago was classified as ‘remainder length’ by British Waterways. The opening of the Liverpool Canal Link in 2009 proved a turning point, providing boaters with an amazing leisure destination in the South Docks and re-energising the western end of the country’s longest canal.

The growth in the number of volunteers with the Canal & River Trust has also been a key factor in upgrading the environment, with a strong, dedicated team now keeping the canal and towpath in top condition, supporting trust staff in providing help to boaters and local communities along its route.

This year the trust has seen an extra 125 miles added to the 565 miles already designated with the Green Flag environmental quality mark. This includes a 15-mile section of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in East Lancashire between Blackburn and Burnley, and several other waterways throughout the North West.

CRT North West Daniel Greenhalgh director said: “We are delighted that more than a quarter of our network now holds Green Flag awards. It is a testament to everyone who works or volunteers with the trust, including those in the community who play such a vital part in helping to look after their local canal.”

To participate in the trust’s weekly volunteer work parties in Wigan and Sefton, email Neil Holladay at Neil.Holladay@ canalrivertrust.org.uk. Also visit canalrivertrust.org.uk