Ashton and Lower Peak Forest Canals

HC Deb 11 November 1968 vol 773 cc26-7

33. Mr. Berry

asked the Minister of Transport what is the estimated cost of filling in and piping the Ashton Canal and the Lower Forest Canal.

Mr. Marsh

The cost of a piping scheme for the Ashton Canal has been estimated by the Waterways Board to be over £400,000; no similar estimate has been made for the Lower Peak Forest Canal. This is only one of several possible ways of dealing with these canals.

Mr. Berry

Since under the Transport Act, 1968, these canals will have to be filled in and piped, is it not time that a figure was given? Can the Minister also indicate who will pay for this? Will it be the local ratepayers? If so, should not they be consulted about it, or would it not be better to have the canals open, as the majority of people in the area wish?

Mr. Marsh

We had this discussion at various periods on the Transport Bill. There is no reason why local authorities which feel strongly about certain stretches of canal should not discuss the matter with the British Waterways Board.