Where is it?
The proposed area for the project stretches for 45 Km down the centre of Cheshire from Frodsham to Audlem and out to Sandbach and Crewe. Approximately 300,000 people live within its boundary, and it is also closely linked to Runcorn. The valley lies between the three city regions of Manchester, Liverpool and the Potteries with 4 million people within 1 hour’s drive time.
The location, need and opportunity for the project are based on the valley's history of salt working, waterways and towns. The River Weaver became the artery which enabled the salt industry to grow and flourish. It provided a vital source of transportation for this industry and the salt based chemical industry. The naturally navigable river was never more than 6 miles long, however several phases of canalisation in the 18th century increased the navigable length to 20 miles.
The waterway linkages in the Weaver Valley are strengthened by both the Trent & Mersey and Shropshire Union canals. The Weaver Navigation and Trent and Mersey canal are connected by the recently restored Anderton Boat Lift. The Shropshire Union canal passes close to the River Weaver south of Winsford and offers potential for the development of a link in the future.
Location Plans
Please note that the Weaver Valley Regional Park boundary is draft only and is subject to future changes.