Runcorn link
TEN boats took part in a campaign cruise on the River Weaver in August to raise awareness of restoration projects in the area.
Initiatives included the restoration of Frodsham Old Lock, the reopening of Weston Lock and the ambitious Unlock Runcorn project. The cruise was organised jointly by IWA Chester & Merseyside Branch and the River Weaver Navigation Society and took place between August 22-26.
IWA Chester & Merseyside Branch launched a new campaign as part of the cruise to restore the Frodsham Old Lock. Bringing this lock back into use would relink the town of Frodsham to the river and create a new cruising route.
Branch chairman Jim Forkin said: “In the history of the salt trade on the Weaver, Frodsham played a vital role from the very early days when pack horse trails ran from the town carrying Lancashire coal up the river and both rock and refined salt down. This role as an inland port further developed and eventually the Weaver was described in the 19th century as ‘the most perfect river navigation’.
“To reconnect the town to the main boating network will give boaters a destination to cruise to and bring great benefit to the local economy.”
The convoy arrived at their destination in Runcorn on August 26. Visitors were treated to guided tours with a full explanation of the plans to rejuvenate this area of Runcorn and create a significant national waterway attraction.
Jim added: “We were pleased that councillors from a neighbouring council came along to see for themselves what a great project it is and the team from the Danny (Daniel Adamson Preservation Society) sent along a representative through the IWA to begin discussions with the Runcorn team on how the two charities can work together.”
Two sets of locks at Runcorn historically linked the Manchester Ship Canal and the Bridgewater Canal. An ambitious project would see the restoration of a link between the Bridgewater and the Manchester Ship Canals, completing the Runcorn cruising ring.
The major engineering scheme involving a boat lift, inclined plane and restored locks on one of the old flights of locks between the two canals. The link will bring health and economic benefits to the town and reinstate an important part of Runcorn’s industrial heritage.
River Weaver Navigation Society chairman Jim Mole added: “Despite challenging weather everyone thoroughly enjoyed the visit and the welcome we received. The prospect of a new cruising ring is something to look forward to and hopefully Runcorn will soon be sharing in the economic boost that we know restored inland waterways and boaters can bring.”