Canal link to Liverpool's waterfront
Work has begun on the long planned extension to the Leeds-Liverpool canal providing a link with the south docks system.
British Waterways received approval from Liverpool City Council for the new 2.5 kilometre (1.4 mile) canal linking the docks to the rest of the country’s canals.
Canal boats as well as commercial ships will be able to navigate through the terminus at Stanley Dock and towards the Pier Head.
Work on the new waterway is due to be completed by the end of 2007 in readiness for Liverpool’s 800th anniversary and the Capital of Culture celebrations in 2008.
The Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott who was promoting the Canal links as part of the Northern Way initiative last year said it was fitting that the canal link be restored as northern cities start to rebuild their links and work together.
He said: "The Leeds & Liverpool Canal was once the backbone of the northern economy. Over the last decade we have seen a renaissance for our waterways, with increased investment and regeneration work, led by British Waterways, bringing waterway life and a great leisure facility back to the people."
An estimate by British Waterways claims that the link will attract and extra 200,000 visitors to Liverpool as well as an additional £1.9 million. The canal link will also generate an extra 200 jobs in the Merseyside area.
Robin Evans chief executive of British Waterways said: "We are thrilled that funding for the Liverpool Canal Link has been secured.
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