Wisbech Canal
Environment investigation of the former Wisbech Canal.
Between August and November 2010 Fenland District Council and Borough Council King's Lynn and West Norfolk undertook a joint environmental investigation of the 5.25- miles long site of the former Wisbech Canal.
Wisbech Canal opened in 1797 and was used to transport coal and fruit on barges between Wisbech and Outwell. The canal traffic declined in the 1920's and the canal was abandoned in 1926. The canal sat abandoned until 1961, when it was decided that the site should be infilled and levelled off. Different sections of the canal were filled with soil, hardcore and, in restricted sections, household waste. Filling of the canal was completed in the 1970's and the site has been developed in parts.
The aim of the investigation was to identify if any infill could cause environmental concern, pollute the land or cause any harm to people who live on or use the land. The investigation looked to identify if there are any gases, liquids or solids that may pose a risk to the environment or people.
The results identified that the infilled site in its current state does not pose a risk and should not be classified as contaminated land. A report has been prepared by a consultant on behalf of both councils that will be available to download soon.
A range of information has also been produced throughout the duration of the investigation, including three newsletters, non-technical summaries of the research and results of the investigation.
For further information regarding this investigation, please contact:
Fenland District Council
Phone: 01354 654321 or email environmentalservicerequests@fenland.gov.uk
or Borough Council Kings Lynn West Norfolk
Phone: 01553 616200 or email wisbechcanal@west-norfolk.gov.uk
