'Seeping' canal to undergo repairs

A Lincolnshire canal is to undergo major work to stop water seeping out.

Grantham Canal, linking the town and Nottingham, opened in 1797.

Councillor Richard Cleaver, from South Kesteven District Council, which is responsible for a section in Grantham town centre, said water was "seeping through banks" and affecting businesses.

The authority said the work around Earlesfield Lane, Trent Road and Swingbridge Road would begin on 13 July.

Cleaver said: "We became aware of water seeping through the banks, which was causing damage to the road and affecting nearby business.

"Following heavy rain, too much water increases this risk, and potentially failure of the bank."

Measures to enable officials to better manage water levels will form part of the work.

Safety railings, steps, work platforms and a water level gauge are also planned.

The works, costing £206,000, is part of a five-year work programme, the council added.

Cleaver said wildlife would benefit.

"We want local people and wildlife to enjoy the canal, the towpath and its grassy banks, and we regularly review maintenance work to keep on top of routine requirements," he added.

The canal closed as a commerce route in 1936 and is now largely managed by The Grantham Canal Partnership, which includes SKDC.

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