Canal Network Connectivity

 The strategic aim of this project is to improve active travel connectivity within and across Rowley Regis.

This scheme is complete!

Part of the Rowley Regis Towns Fund Programme, the Canal Network Connectivity project has been successfully completed through improvements to the canal towpath surface and the access points onto the canal from surrounding areas. Whilst the project primarily fell under the Connectivity programme described within the Towns Fund guidance, it has delivered significant economic, social (health) and environmental benefits.

The project focused on two areas of canal within Rowley Regis: the Old Main Line Canal and the Dudley No.2 Canal. Although these areas appear separate, they are connected by the Netherton Tunnel and are part of the Birmingham Canal Navigations (BCN), which links to the UK’s inland waterway network.

The project’s Full Business Case was approved by the Government in March 2022 and is funded through the UK Government’s Towns Fund Programme, with co-funding from Sustrans.

Additional Works Delivered by the Canal & River Trust

Following the success of the towpath improvements, the Canal & River Trust replaced the deck of Wrights Bridge – an essential pedestrian crossing located on the Dudley No.2 Canal near Old Hill Station. This upgrade addressed long-standing safety concerns and restored access to a vital link that had been closed to the public for several years. The improvements have enabled residents to access nearby amenities, including Old Hill Station, more easily, significantly reducing journey times and improving daily commuting convenience. These works were part-funded by the Rowley Regis Towns Fund grant.

The major repair works on Wrights Bridge were completed in May 2025.

Key deliverables:

• 25 Temporary Full Time jobs supported during project delivery
• Delivery of 7.3km new cycle ways
• Delivery of 7.2km improved pedestrian paths
• Replacement deck of Wrights Bridge in Cradley Heath