Birmingham canal drained to make way for cycle improvement works
A stretch of the Worcester and Birmingham Canal is drained to allow work on widening the towpath for improved cyclist and pedestrian access
Cycling improvement work in Birmingham has seen one of the city’s most historic stretches of canal drained in order to widen the towpath.
The £250,000 project is aimed at improving pedestrian access to the city centre, and the work is being carried out as part of the Birmingham Cycle Revolution Project.
The work to widen the pathway along the Worcester and Birmingham Canal near Five Ways train station will take up to 10 weeks.
Birmingham City Council secured £17m from the government’s Cycle City Ambition Fund, with other sources giving over £24m more to improve infrastructure.
Coun Lisa Trickett told the Birmingham Mail: “Towpaths are a great alternative route for getting in and around the centre of Birmingham.
“This new access will make it easier for everyone, particularly those using the train station – fitting in perfectly with the aims of our Birmingham Mobility Action Plan.
“Walking and cycling are both great ways to get fit and discover your local stretch of canal.”
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
MP denies Birmingham cycling plans are discriminatory
Northfield MP says investment plan will benefit whole city
Credit: Google Maps
Six metre Birmingham cycle lane branded "ridiculous" by cycling campaign group
Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
Join now for unlimited access
Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Stuart Clarke is a News Associates trained journalist who has worked for the likes of the British Olympic Associate, British Rowing and the England and Wales Cricket Board, and of course Cycling Weekly. His work at Cycling Weekly has focused upon professional racing, following the World Tour races and its characters.