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