Boatman John sets a new course for tours
Reporter: Words and pictures by KEN BENNETT
Date published: 27 May 2009
Skipper John Lund is relieved that an alternative route has been found for his boat trips
Builder provides solution
Boatman John Lund was all at sea over plans to close a controversial bridge.
He was convinced the six-week closure would wreck his summer bookings, but then a builder came forward with a solution.
A team of workmen moved in yesterday to begin long-awaited repairs to Brownhills bridge at Dobcross which was damaged when a mains water pipe burst a year ago.
But John, who runs trips along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal which passes under the bridge, claimed the bridge’s closure could damage lucrative bookings.
Now, in a rapid reschedule, John will continue his daily boat trips on Pennine Moonraker from the basin at Uppermill Museum’s car park.
Trippers will be taken on a new route — passing under Uppermill High Street through two locks to the newly-completed marina at Frenches Wharf Greenfield.
John, who will be managing the new marina on behalf of builder Phil Wiggett, said: “Things looked very bleak when I heard the Brownhills bridge was to close for six weeks affecting the canal.
“Bad weather during the summer months over the last couple of years hit my business hard and the bridge closure could have created major problems. But I believe visitors will really enjoy the new route.
“It shows another spectacular part of the canal’s history — and I think they will really like the novel idea of actually passing under the roadway.
“The new marina itself is well worth a visit — it will be a real eye-opener for first-time visitors and show the potential Saddleworth has got to offer for tourists and those interested in water-based activities.”
Mr Wiggett said: “We understand John’s problems. As the marina’s manager, using the marina for his trips is a supportive and sensible way of him being able to continue to run trips.”
An Oldham Council spokeswoman said the work would take six weeks to complete.
She said: “Strengthening works will be carried out safely on a section of the Huddersfield canal and the adjacent towpath will be closed daily between 7am and 5pm, except for weekends, and June 5 — for the band contests. There will be a short signed diversion for walkers. Traffic flows will be controlled by the temporary lights that are in existence now on Dobcross New Road and will remain for the duration of the contract.”
Steve Woodcock, construction manager for Gold Hawk Restorations, which will be carrying out specialist repairs to the bridge, said: “It is a most exciting project.
“We are using some innovative techniques to restore the bridge to full use,” he added.
