A major project to improve part of the canal network in Stoke-on-Trent has officially started.

The council is working with the Canal & River Trust to enhance the 5km stretch of the Trent and Mersey Canal, which runs from Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station to Longton Road, Trentham.

Work will include removing and cutting back overgrown hedges, vegetation and a small number of trees to help open up and improve visibility of the towpaths, and new top dressing will be applied to the whole 5km length.

Significant repairs will also be made to the towpath, particularly in areas where cobbles have cracked or lifted due to tree roots, and new solar lighting will be installed.

Significant repairs will also be made to the towpath along the canal (Nub News).

Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for regeneration, infrastructure and transport, said: "This work will bring our city's wonderful canals back to life and will bring with it significant economic and environmental benefits. It will make the canal safer, more attractive and accessible to residents and visitors, and promote active travel by providing traffic-free walking and cycling routes in the city.

"It will also help to connect residents to key employment sites along the stretch such as Trentham Lakes and Newstead.

"The canals that have served our city for over two centuries are an important part of our heritage. Yet, over time, they have been neglected and parts of the towpath have become inaccessible. By modernising and enhancing the canal network, we're opening up these beautiful spaces for more people to enjoy and make use of the natural environment on our doorsteps.

It is estimated that all of the work will be completed by the end of June (Stoke-on-Trent City Council).

"This is another step in our shared ambition to make our city healthier, safer, greener and cleaner – a place where everyone can thrive."

It is estimated that all of the work should be completed by the end of June 2025.

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