Uttoxeter Canal

Following the pandemic, work parties recommenced on the Crumpwood section of the Uttoxeter Canal but bad weather somewhat curtailed the number the Caldon & Uttoxeter Canals Trust was able to hold. However, some vegetation management was carried out around Bridge No 70 and Carrington’s Lock. Some protective posts surrounding the lock were reset and repainted, and the final plaques placed on the remaining mileposts.

A developer applied to build houses at Froghall that would have blocked the onward reinstatement of the canal to Uttoxeter. However, following very many objections (including one from David Suchet), this was comprehensively rejected by the planners. In view of this refusal, the trust responded to a planning application at the Barnfields site in Leek. The original concept included a small marina at the terminus of the canal providing a small number of moorings. However, the planning committee considered that the marina need not form part of the development. The trust lodged an objection on the basis that the canal should be extended to form a small basin where boats could be moored. A revised plan was produced which allowed for moorings on a more restricted scale but bounded by high fencing. The trust, while welcoming the new basin, considered that access should be for all, that high fencing was not appropriate and that the adjoining housing should be in keeping.

During the year it became clear that the low water levels in Rudyard Reservoir, while being unavoidable, could have been less drastic had the Dane feeder been able to function fully. In many places it was out of water and/or clogged with vegetation so that a free flow of water was impossible. The trust formed a partnership with other bodies with a view to clearing the feeder and allowing it to function properly.

The trust was also involved with other organisations throughout 2022 so has been active despite the practical work being less than normal.

_{March 2023}