AN HISTORIC canal towpath being given a £8m makeover was officially launched this week by transport minister and Halton MP Derek Twigg.
The first renovated section of 'The Bridgewater Way' runs from Waterloo Bridge in Runcorn Old Town to Leiria Way, beside The Brindley.
"I am delighted that the towpath along the Bridgewater Canal is to be given a new lease of life," said transport minister Derek Twigg.
"Canal towpaths are often a hidden asset but now this one has been revamped, it will offer a safe route on which people can walk, cycle and generally enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area."
The 39-mile long Bridgewater Canal was opened in 1761 and the horse drawn barges that used the towpath fuelled Manchester's industrial revolution.
The project is being pioneered by the Bridgewater Canal trust, a partnership of eight local authorities, including Halton Council, with canal owners Peel Holdings.
It is hoped the work will be completed by 2011, in time for the 250th opening of the canal.
bjordan@worldgroup.co.uk
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