IT IS hoped that a hole in the bottom of a the Shropshire Union Canal near Audlem will be repaired by Easter.

The canal developed a leak in January at Bridge 80 near to Overwater Marina, with water quickly draining from the affected site.

Since the issue was reported, work has been undertaken by the Canal and River Trust the repair the culvert.

A spokesman for the Trust explained the issue.

"Inspections have been carried out onsite at Bridge 80, Bennetts Bridge on the Shropshire Union Canal and our engineers have found a section of the culvert by Bridge 80 has collapsed under the canal which requires replacement," explained the spokesman.

The repairs at Bridge 80 near Overwater Marina. Pictures by Overwater Marina

The repairs at Bridge 80 near Overwater Marina. Pictures by Overwater Marina

"Our engineers have prepared their design for the permanent repair works to the culvert and our contractors have started to set up a temporary towpath diversion around the work site while continuing with site set up.

"Our contractors have now installed a temporary access into the canal bed and we will be starting works to remove the damaged culvert early next week.

"While this section of the canal remains de-watered, our teams across the Shropshire Union Canal have been working together to manage the water levels and provide a sufficient flow past the affected areas.

"A towpath diversion has also been established this week, details of which can be seen onsite.

"We will endeavour to get this repair complete in time for Easter.

"We will have better certainty on the timescale in the next couple of weeks and a further update will be provided by Friday, February 19."

The repairs at Bridge 80 near Overwater Marina. Pictures by Overwater Marina

The repairs at Bridge 80 near Overwater Marina. Pictures by Overwater Marina

Meanwhile the manager of Overwater Marina, David Johnson, says that thanks to the national lockdown, the disruption to services has been minimal.

The issue is being repaired by the Canal and River Trust but we have our own flood boards too just in case," said David.

"Under normal circumstances we'd be frustrated but under lockdown it hasn't affected us as much."