A DCG member recently informed me that work has started on upgrading the canal towpath between Swarkestone and the Cloud Trail. This path has been challenging to ride along, a narrow gravel track cut into the grass with frequent muddy puddles that spread as cyclists and pedestrians negotiate their way around the dirty water.
When I visited the canal access to the towpath was barred with tall metal barriers, at both Swarkestone Lock and the junction with the Cloud Trail by bridge 11a. The Canal and Rivers Trust website indicates that the towpath is being widened and having an all weather surface laid, a sympathetic stone chipping layer being added next year. Contractors indicated to me that the path would be between 1.8 m and 2 m wide generally but closer to the junction with the Cloud Trail the width would be limited to about 1.5 m.
Derbyshire County Council closure notification on their website indicates that the towpath will be closed from 3rd October 2022 until 31st December 2022, unless the work is completed earlier than advertised. Their notification also states there are no alternative routes.
The Canal and Rivers Trust site notice suggest using the busy A514 and the narrow, windy Swarkestone Road to Weston-on-Trent, to join the Cloud Trail by the railway over bridge. These are not good roads to ride along, particularly for less experienced riders.
We can look forward to the new year when we will be able to enjoy a continuous cycle path from Darley Park, Derby to Worthington, Leicestershire, almost 13 miles of hard surface and virtually car free.
Update
The canal tow path closure has been extended until 15 January 2023, due to the freezing weather conditions which has caused problems with laying the tarmac and issues with the quarry. Refer to Canal & Rivers Trust website, as below:
