Solution sought for Sankey Canal as record rubbish removed

Teams completed a big litter pick yesterday morning, Sunday, in an effort to spruce up the natural beauty spot near Penketh, which was appearing instead as a grot spot.

The canal itself has been badly affected by falling water levels caused by the closure of Fiddler’s Ferry Power Station in Cuerdley.

The area’s MP says he is seeking a solution to the problem in a bid to save fish and other wildlife living in and along the canal bank.

The litter pick saw volunteers who usually tidy up Sankey Canal towpath, which continues to Sankey Valley Park and St Helens, and the Trans Pennine Trail, which continues through south Warrington, join forces.

Also involved were participants from Widnes, Winwick, Westbrook and Howley litter networks, who gathered a large amount of cans, bottles and carpets.

Other bulkier items included a partly submerged shopping trolley and some huge lengths of heavy cable insulation, which seemed to be decades old and trapped under tree roots.

Volunteers with rubbish collected from in and around Sankey Canal

In total, 15 volunteers cleared 80 bags of litter in two hours, which is believed to be a local litter picking record.

All the bags and cable insulation were carried for around half a mile and left for collection by Halton Borough Council.

Tony Dixon a retired GP from Grappenhall who picks litter at least four or five days a week, said: “The canal has taken a real beating in the last few months, with falling water levels caused by the closure of Fiddlers Ferry Power Station.

“Fish and swan rescues have been taking place from the canal by concerned local naturalists.

“We targeted a large amount of historic littering on the wooded north canal bank near Carter House Bridge. This land was former railway sidings, which reverted to Woodland decades ago.

“Although we could not help the canal water level, we have turned a very visible litter eyesore back to very pleasing natural woodland.

Warrington South MP Andy Carter with workers from the Environment Agency at Sankey Canal

“Cyclists, dog walkers and families walking the towpath will see a big difference on the other side of the canal.”

Falling water levels in the canal have been brought to the attention of Warrington South MP Andy Carter.

On the issue, he commented: “I have met with the Environment Agency to look at water levels in the Warrington section of the Sankey Canal near Penketh. 

“I know there are concerns, and work is underway by the Environment Agency to move around 7,000 fish from the Halton section of the canal, after pumping ended at Fiddlers Ferry.

“While there has been no noticeable drop in the water in our section, I am very grateful to Warrington Borough Council Officers who have worked to minimise leaks and maintain temporary pumping.

“Later this month, I will be meeting with the MP for Halton and officers from Warrington and Halton councils to seek a more permanent solution.”