Work has started on clearing the line of the old Burslem Branch Canal in Middleport, Stoke-on-Trent following 13 years of planning and persuasion by the Burslem Port Project.

Backed by the Trent and Mersey Canal Society and the Stoke Branch of the Inland Waterways Association, the Project aims to restore the ³/₈ mile Branch Canal and create an attractive and safe “haven” for boaters passing through or visiting Stoke-on-Trent. 

The restoration will also be a major feature in and contributor to, the regeneration of both the Middleport community alongside the canal site and nearby Burslem the “Mother Town” of the Potteries.

Supported financially by Renew North Staffordshire, the local regeneration agency, a team of up to 20 young people is being trained in environmental management and groundwork techniques by PM Training of Shelton, Stoke-on-Trent, whilst undertaking the clearance of trees, shrubs and scrub over a three-months period.  The cost is £46,800 which, when added to Renew’s previous funding of the Feasibility Study, brings their total commitment to Burslem Port to around £100,000.

Chairman of the Project, Roger Savage, stated “Renew has demonstrated their faith in the Project by funding this initial work which will open the way for volunteers to be involved in the future.  Whilst there is no guarantee that our project will be fully realized this is a very good sign of progress”

Project Officer, David Dumbelton said “This is the first time that we have “broken ground” after so long and it represents a giant step forward for Burslem Port.  In addition to Renew’s support we are also deeply grateful to our Patron, Joan Walley MP (Member for Stoke North) who has worked tirelessly over the years promoting our cause at the upper political level, and we are also indebted to British Waterways who have also backed us all along and provided much useful advice and support”

12th November 2009