A series of brand new photos of the Liverpool Canal, taken this week, can be found starting on this page: http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk/ll/liverpool-link25.htm
The construction of the Liverpool Canal Link is now complete. British Waterways is currently undertaking a programme of testing and commissioning before allowing boaters to use the link. A BW work boat has made a number of passages through the locks. New finger pontoons have been installed in Salthouse Dock, adjacent to Albert Dock, providing visitor moorings for up to 40 narrowboats and 4 wide beam boats. These will shortly have water and power installed. Boaters wishing to take their boats to Liverpool should contact BW's Wigan office (01942 405700) to book a passage from Maghull to Liverpool and to book a mooring space. There is already a waiting list. The link is expected to open to boaters around the end of April or beginning of May, although a date has not yet been finalised. Anyone planning to arrive from Eastham will need to enter Brunswick Lock, which is managed by Liverpool Marina (0151 707 6888) and for which there is a charge (£6 according to their website). You will also need to phone Wigan to book a pontoon in Salthouse Dock and to let them know if you intend to continue via the Canal Link and Leeds and Liverpool Canal, as you will need to book a slot for that. I am glad to say it looks as if it the western end of the Leeds and Liverpool is going to be busy this year! I understand that Bridgewater licence holders going to Liverpool will be allowed out of the Bridgewater Canal for 14 days now. Photos: http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk/ll/liverpool-link25.htm -- Martin Clark Pennine Waterways Website http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk
