PARTS of a World Heritage site which runs through Chirk will be lit up with special illuminations for three weeks next month.

Sections of the 11-mile stretch of Llangollen Canal, which is named as one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, will be lit up in October to mark 10 years since gaining its status.

In Chirk, the aqueduct, viaduct and ‘Darkie’ tunnel will all be lit up by lighting company, Enlightened.

Areas elsewhere along the stretch of canal, including the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and the Horseshoe Falls in Llangollen, will also be lit up.

Funding of up to £45,000 for the project has been given by Visit Wales, the Canal and River Trust and Denbighshire County Council.

Dave Thorpe, the leader of the Luminaire project for Enlightened, is pleased to be involved with the 10-year celebrations.

“We became involved after responding to a tender and we’ve taken things from there really,” said Dave.

“It is also being organised to mark 10 years since the site was given its World Heritage status, but also because this year, the annual World Heritage Site Conference is taking place in Llangollen, so it’s linked to that too.

“It will be a good way to show off what the area has to offer.”

Dave hopes the lights will add another reason to visit the site during the time it is on, and hopes it can continue to bring back visitors who have been spending time in the area this summer.

He added: “It’s a way which will help to potentially extend the tourist season across the region.

“With children being back in school, things tend to quiet down, but this could keep people coming back.

“We’re delighted to be involved with this project and think it will be a great addition to the site for the time it is there.”

Wrexham County Borough Councillor for Chirk South, Councillor Terry Evans, echoed Dave’s views and looks forward to seeing the displays.

“I agree; it is a brilliant way to extend the tourist season,” he said.

“It is something which will continue into the school half-term in October, so it should appeal to a lot of people during children’s time off school too.

“It’s the first time we’ve had something this big in te area, so of course we welcome it.”

The places along the World Heritage Site will be lit up from Sunday, October 6.

Features along the site will be lit for two hours per night – this will most likely be between 8pm and 10pm.

n For more information about Enlightened, visit their website at www.enlx.co.uk