The decision to scrap much of the Eastern Leg of HS2 Phase 2b, means that the Dearne & Dove Canal restoration is no longer under threat from HS2.

The proposed restoration of the Dearne & Dove Canal by the Barnsley, Dearne & Dove Canals Trust could have been affected in two ways. If plans went ahead, our view was that:

1. Electrification and signalling works to the existing Dearne Valley Railway Line adjacent to and crossing the Dearne and Dove Canal at Swinton should not further inhibit the future restoration of the canal on its historic route.
2. The identified alternative route using the canalised River Dearne for navigation would have been crossed by the River Dearne Viaduct, and the viaduct piers should be located to provide a clear span of the river and sufficient width of its banks for future construction access and provision of a towpath.