The work: The Camps will be continuing the channel construction along the section of canal between Tamworth Road and Gallows Wharf, including steel piling of the banks, excavation of the channel to final depth and placing a concrete base to keep the channel watertight.

The reason: Planning permission was granted for this section of the canal in 2024, and significant works are underway already to extend the in-water section of the Lichfield Canal through to Gallows Wharf. The works are divided into three phases, with the Trust currently working on phase 1 and the WRG Camps taking place on phase 2. In between, a new road bridge is due to be constructed by the local authority in the coming year, removing the last main obstacle to connection on this length.

The restoration: the Lichfield Canal was constructed in the late 18^th century as part of the Wyrley and Essington Canal, with 30 locks over 7 miles connecting the Birmingham Canal Navigations to the Coventry Canal. The Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust is working to restore the Lichfield Canal and the Hatherton Canal, a derelict branch of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. Together, the two canals will restore northern links into the Birmingham Canal Navigations and bring a wide range of benefits to the local communities.