Edward Holdsworth
LIVERPOOL’S YEAR OF CULTURE 2008 – Part One
While researching the future of Liverpool Docks I discovered plans
for the extension of the 12 mile Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which
currently ends at the lock flight into Stanley Dock. This £20M project
is funded by the dock owners, Peel Holdings, who took over from Mersey
Docks and Harbour Board in 2005, and are current owners of Trafford
Park, Doncaster Airport, Liverpool Airport, Manchester Ship Canal, to
name just a few. The link extends the canal through the disused central
docks, across the pier head in front of the Three Graces and into the
South Docks, a total of 1.4 miles of navigable waterway. The route
includes two new locks, open channels and tunnels. There are also
various structures and works required to facilitate the safe passage
through the existing dock system and to ensure clearances for
navigation. These include: two new highway bridges, flow control
structures and utility diversions. At the Pier Head the development will
provide access to the waters edge and will utilise space for the public
to enjoy. It will create a vibrant waterspace to enhance the
relationship between the canal and surrounding public area.
See Part Two – Liverpool Docks from 1710 to 2002 (Pending)
By Edward Houldsworth