Towpath Closure At Bulls Bridge

6 November 2008

A section of the Paddington Branch of the Grand Union Canal towpath from Bulls Bridge Road to Beaconsfield Road in Ealing will be closed for 16 weeks from the 10 November 2008, as part of essential engineering works being undertaken by Network Rail.

British Waterways, working with Network Rail and their contractors BAM Nuttal Ltd, has put a diversion in place, taking walkers, cyclists and joggers off the towpath in the section where works will be taking place, and onto neighbouring streets, before returning them to the waterside to continue their journey.

The diversion is signed throughout, and advance warning notices have been put in place to give regular towpath users time to adjust their travel plans.

The 16 week project will break for Christmas, and for two weeks the towpath will be re-opened. This will enable users to enjoy the towpath during what is traditionally a busy time for people to get out and about during the holidays.

Simon Bamford, General Manager, British Waterways London explains: “Normally the towpath provides a popular, car-free alternative route for people walking, cycling and jogging in Ealing, but in this case it would not be safe to keep the towpath open whilst the works to Network Rail’s bridge are undertaken.

“We are working with Network Rail to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum, diversions are put in place and towpath users are made aware of the works. British Waterways London would like to apologise for any inconvenience this closure causes.”

The route is popular with commuters, as well as local people who like to walk by the historic canal and enjoy watching the waterway wildlife. Towpath visitors can find out more about other waterways in the capital, including alternative walking and cycling routes, as well as updates on any towpath closures at www.waterscape.com.

ENDS

For more press information contact Gill Owen on 020 7985 7227 mb 07733 124580

Notes to Editors

British Waterways cares for and manages 100 miles of canals and rivers and 110 acres of docks in London. As a not-for-dividend public corporation it works with a broad range of public, private and voluntary sector partners to unlock the potential of the inland waterways for the benefit of the millions who visit and care for them. www.britishwaterways.co.uk

Find more information on leisure activities and events around the canals and rivers on British Waterways’ dedicated leisure site: www.waterscape.com

For more information about canal repairs visit www.waterscape.com/stoppages or call British Waterways London on 020 7985 7200.