THE WALL of a building site has collapsed blocking a canal towpath.

Debris from a retaining wall at the Spindlegate site, Hillhouse Lane, has blocked the path alongside the Huddersfield Broad Canal.

But the towpath will be reopened within three weeks, say developers GMI Property, of Leeds.

The wall, part of the former James Robinsons Chemicals site, collapsed, scattering debris over the towpath and into the canal.

The towpath has since been closed to protect walkers.

But GMI Property, which is leading the redevelopment of the former James Robinsons chemicals site, says the path will reopen and the wall will be repaired or replaced in time for the opening of a new pub on the site.

The pub, called The Yorkshire Rose, is expected to open on October 8.

The newly-built premises, owned by Marston’s brewery, will feature a large dining area.

The development will also include a Travelodge hotel and other leisure facilities.

GMI construction director Andrew Kemp said: “It’s all in hand. Engineering solutions are being looked at.

“We’re liaising with British Waterways. We’ve closed the towpath for safety reasons.

“We hope the towpath will reopen within two or three weeks when the pub opens for business on October 8.

“We’re doing strengthening works and maybe a new wall.

“There’s a bit of rubble that needs to be cleared out but the navigation has not been blocked off.

“The opening of the pub is well on target and we’re looking at the leisure options to keep it going.”

Josie Madden, senior waterway engineer for British Waterways North East, said: “The damaged section of wall in question is currently owned by a third party developer. However, we have been in discussions with them to help find the most suitable option to repair it.

“Following this, a design scheme will be carried out in order to stabilise the wall and a permanent solution will be devised.

“Unfortunately, the towpath will be closed until we’re happy that the area is safe to reopen to the public, but the canal remains open and will only be closed if needed to help facilitate the repair work.”

James Robinsons dyeworks were demolished back in November 2007 when councillors approved a planning application for a hotel, shops, offices and restaurants.

Work began at the Spindlegate site in early 2008 but came to a halt for more than a year on the five-and-a-quarter acre site.

Construction started up again on the land between Leeds Road and Hillhouse Lane in March this year.