Partnership Approach Taken To Repair Historic Coppy Bridge

17 December 2008

British Waterways is working closely with Rochdale Metropolitan Council and local community groups to repair Coppy Bridge on the Rochdale Canal.

The historic grade II listed structure, which dates back to the late 18th century, was built to the designs of the renowned canal engineer William Jessop. Constructed of local stone, the bridge is simple and robust in design.

Following a number of incidents of vandalism, British Waterways (BW) have met with Councillors Kerslake and Ashworth to consider options to rehabilitate the historic structure, it is estimated that the repairs will cost around £30k.

With the help of Councillor Kerslake, BW is looking to develop a project working in association with key community groups and residents to help find a permanent solution to the vandalism issue in the area.

Andrew Tegg, BW heritage advisor said: “We are pleased to be working with Councillor Kerslake and the local community to find a solution to repair this historic bridge. We want to ensure that our historic fabric is protected whilst ensuring that the public money we are spending to repair historic structures is sustainable in the long term and not wasted whilst they are being targeted in such a senseless way.”

Councillor Kerslake added: “All 3 ward councillors are hoping that once Coppy Bridge is repaired we can encourage the young people to take an interest in the structure and the surrounding area. There are some exciting plans in the pipeline for the near future to give the youngsters a sense of belonging and, hopefully, this will stop the senseless and wilful damage that is being done, by a few and therefore spoiling things for the rest.”

Ends

Media enquiries to: Helen Hall Media Unit on 01942 405788 & 077177 60284, email helen.hall@britishwaterways.co.uk

Notes to Editors:
British Waterways cares for and maintains the nation's 2,200 mile network of canals and inland waterways, working in partnership with private companies, local authorities, voluntary groups and other government agencies to protect and enhance the waterways and benefit the communities through which they run.

Re-opened in 2002, the 32 mile long Rochdale Canal is the Everest of canals and travels from the heart of Manchester to its junction with the Calder and Hebble Navigation at Sowerby Bridge.