A FORGOTTEN section of canal has been uncovered to revive Huddersfield’s waterfront.
The 350-metre stretch of Huddersfield Narrow Canal off Chapel Hill was officially reopened yesterday as part of a massive regeneration project.
The stretch was uncovered after three buildings and the tunnel roof were removed and a new lock built to lift the water to just below ground level.
And the opening was welcomed by constructors, boaters and on-lookers for a ribbon cutting at the site – part of the huge Waterfront scheme.
In order to mark the landmark opening, Calder Navigation Society brought one of their boats along for the journey.
Alan Stopher, chairman of Huddersfield Canal Society, said: “After years in a tunnel hidden from view to all but boaters, this ‘new’ stretch of canal is accessible to all.
“This project has transformed the waterside and has created a focal point for Huddersfield which everyone can come and enjoy.”
A passing place and a landing stage for boats, a vehicle bridge, and footbridges, have also been completed.
Alan added: “And it will only get better. As the landscaping and the footpaths are uncovered this area’s full potential can be reached.”
The tunnel previously ran through the site of Sellers Engineers Ltd, who have since relocated their premises.
Barry Sandiford. Project Manager for Clugston Construction Ltd who are leading the development, said: “We demolished the previous three large industrial buildings and an access road.
“We then lifted the canal bed and removed the old canal roof.
“It was a challenging project and needed the careful removal of asbestos from the buildings.”
David Baldacchino, Waterway Manager (Manchester and Pennine) for British Waterways, said: “It is really fantastic to see the restoration of this section of canal which has been hidden away from society.
“The new Waterfront in Huddersfield will be a must-see destination for visitors to the Huddersfield Narrow canal.
“We’re really looking forward to everyone having the opportunity to enjoy the waterside and hope that many more people will visit the Huddersfield Narrow Canal.”
The improved canal will be the centrepiece of development at The Waterfront, a joint scheme between Kirklees Council, Yorkshire Forward, and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.
The Huddersfield Narrow Canal closed in 1944 and was infilled in the 70s.
The waterway restoration was carried out between late 1999 and early 2001.
