Better access after canal towpath improvements

Overgrown vegetation has been removed and uneven surfaces flattened to make a canal towpath more accessible.

The improvements, at Smestow Valley Local Nature Reserve in Wolverhampton, have been carried out on the main section of path running from Tettenhall Old Bridge to Compton Bridge.

New drainage has been installed and the path re-surfaced as part of a wider improvement and enhancement scheme at the nature reserve.

Other work has included the creation of a wildflower meadow which was delivered by the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust with support from the Friends of Smestow Valley Local Nature Reserve.

The work was funded by £200,000 from the government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

Coir rolls have also been installed to improve the stability of the canal banks, with the aim of promoting the growth of aquatic plants and vegetation, to encourage wildlife such as water voles.

Over the coming months the project will also include restoration of hedges in the northern part of the reserve, the re-establishment of an ancient pond and the creation of a community orchard.

“It’s wonderful to see the significant improvements that have been carried out along the canal towpath at Smestow Valley Local Nature Reserve,” said Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services at City of Wolverhampton Council.

Ian Lane, from the Canal & River Trust, said the project was an important part of the charity’s commitment to giving people the opportunity to enjoy green spaces.

Smestow Valley and rail network is a 4.5km (2.7miles) long site, which forms part of the Black Country UNESCO global geopark.

It provides visitors with opportunities for a range of activities - including walking, cycling and boating.

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