A section of towpath on Huddersfield Narrow Canal is closed … and it’s not known when it will reopen.

The stretch has been shut at Longroyd Bridge between Stoney Battery Road and where Manchester Road meets Longroyd Lane close to Huddersfield town centre. It means people really need to leave the canal towpath in Milnsbridge.

The problem is a wall in danger of collapsing and asbestos has been found on the site too.

A spokesperson for the Canal and River Trust which has implemented the closure said: “Safety along our canals and for all towpath users is the Trust’s main concern. Unfortunately, the towpath closure on Huddersfield Narrow Canal between Huddersfield and Milnsbridge is unavoidable due to safety concerns.

“Earlier this year the wall started to bulge and break apart due to the presence of tree roots so the Trust closed this section of towpath to keep people safe. 

“Early investigations have uncovered the presence of asbestos and complications behind the wall meaning the repair will be more difficult than first expected. Further work will be undertaken to identify the best solution.

“The Trust has explored options to reopen the towpath on a temporary basis. However, due to the real risk of wall collapse it is not possible for the towpath to be safely opened until the repair has been completed and so we cannot confirm when it will reopen.

“We apologise for any inconvenience but our priority is ensuring people’s safety. We will update the notice with any further information we receive.”

Map showing canal towpath closure

Written by ANDY HIRST who runs his own Yorkshire freelance journalism agency AH! PR (https://ah-pr.com/) specialising in press releases, blogging, website content and copywriting.