New phase of Montgomery Canal restoration begins
A new phase of the restoration of the Montgomery Canal is underway for the new year.
Shropshire Union Canal Society volunteers are working on a section of the canal near Oswestry, between Pryces Bridge and Crickheath.
Late last year they finished a 225 metre section which is now ready for testing to see if it is watertight.
Fred Barrett from the society said: "Work now moves on to phase two, a 290 metre section which will link up with the Canal and River Trust Winding Hole Project at Crickheath.
"It is estimated that both ends of the 735 metre stretch will be restored, in water, and have boats on it by 2020 / 21."
This weekend sees a work party descend on the canal between Friday and Sunday to clear vegetation and start putting in newt fencing to protect the amphibians.
The Shropshire Union Canal Society has been involved with progressively restoring the channel of the Montgomery Canal since 2008.
