Local MP Robert Largan joined representatives from the Canal & River Trust in Parliament last week, to celebrate the charity’s tenth anniversary, and to learn more about its work in the High Peak.

The Canal & River Trust protects and preserves more than 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales. Their network includes Peak Forest Canal, Toddbrook Reservoir, and Combs Reservoir.

Under the Trust’s stewardship, our canals now host more boats than ever before, and are used by more people than at any other time in history.

Mr Largan was joined at the event by Minister for Nature Recovery & the Domestic Environment, Rebecca Pow MP, who paid tribute to the Trust, which works tirelessly to maintain, protect, and enhance our canals and rivers.

Mr Largan also met with the Trust to discuss the progress of its restoration of Toddbrook Reservoir; repairs to the feeder culvert from Combs Reservoir, and the temporary closure of the Peak Forest Canal.

The Peak Forest Canal is partly closed due to the ongoing works at Toddbrook Reservoir. In addition, the canal’s locks have been closed due to the unusually low water level, itself due to this year’s dry spring. This means that barges cannot enter or leave the Peak Forest Canal. Towpaths are still open for walkers and cyclists as usual.

Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:

“We are incredibly lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world with so many fantastic canals and waterways.

“I am concerned about the impact on businesses as a result of the closure of Peak Forest Canal. If any affected businesses require assistance, please do get in touch with me.

“This really underlines the importance of restoring Toddbrook Reservoir as soon as possible.

“In the meantime, let’s hope for rain soon so we can get the Peak Forest Canal fully open again!”