Canal Dredging and Bank Repairs Update
12 Oct 2023
Cornwall Council is delighted to let you know about our upcoming plans to dredge Bude Canal, which has been a priority for many stakeholders in recent years. The project will provide many benefits for canal users, as well as improved ecology and flood risk reduction.
Works to repair the canal bank alongside Crescent Carpark, will follow on after the dredging.
Progress has already been made with dredging, and since November 2022 the inland zone east of County Road (Rodds) Bridge has been desilted. This was a relatively simple operation, with no impact on the use of the canal or the paths around it. We are now in the position to move ahead with dredging the lower zones, from County Road (Rodds) Bridge to the sea lock. However, this is a significant and complex operation over a long stretch of the canal; given the challenges and sensitivities of the site and the heavy plant required, it will have a greater impact on canal users and the community.
In order to give the community time to be aware of upcoming impacts, including canal, path and carpark restrictions we are providing information about the intended timeline, set out below, although, please note that the actual timeline for the operation remains dependent on weather and ecological conditions being favourable.
Works planned to start in early November
The anticipated start date is Monday 6th November, when the operation will begin setting up in the Crescent Carpark. The building of the silt dewatering area will entail fencing off approximately two thirds of the Crescent Carpark with perimeter screening for both public and ecological security. .
Customers of the Crescent Carpark will be directed to alternative parking at Summerleaze and Crooklets Carparks.
During the dredging period, activity on the canal will be restricted and day launches will not be available for purchase.
Members of the public are politely reminded to follow the information on site notices and follow the request of works stewards for your own and others safety.
The overall dredging operation is then expected to complete by the end of January 24, however the exact timeline may be impacted by climate and ecological conditions, which are outside of our control.
Following on from the dredging work, repairs will be carried out to a section of the canal bank from Flacon Bridge. These works will require management of access to the footpath for approx.100m section during which time people will be diverted through the Crescent Carpark.
It is expected that the majority of the carpark will be re-opened on completion of the dredging works, however some fenced off areas will remain to allow the contractors to work safely.
The embankment repairs are expected to complete before Easter 24.