Huddersfield canals revitalised with major accessibility and towpath improvements
Residents across Kirklees are being encouraged to get out and explore the newly improved Huddersfield Narrow and Broad Canals following the completion of a major programme of investment.
The multi-million-pound project has transformed the canal network into safer, more accessible and welcoming spaces for local communities, helping more people enjoy walking, wheeling, cycling and spending time by the water.
Making it easier for everyone
Works along both canals have included widening and resurfacing towpaths, removing accessibility barriers such as steps and steep gradients, and repairing walls, verges and historic features.
The improvements make it easier for walkers, wheelers, cyclists and those enjoying time by the water, while connecting communities across Kirklees.
Delivered through a partnership between Kirklees Council, Canal & River Trust and West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the investment will help ensure the canals continue to serve local communities for years to come.
Councillor Pip Harvey, Cabinet Member for Place, Culture and Volunteering, said:
“It’s great news that we’ve secured investment in our historic waterways, helping to create safer and more accessible routes for people who want to walk, wheel and cycle.
“Projects like this are only possible with the support of local community groups and residents, whose feedback has helped shape the scheme and make sure it meets the needs of those who use it.
“This has been a fantastic partnership effort, bringing together a range of organisations to deliver lasting improvements that will benefit local people and future generations for years to come.”
Jon Horsfall, regional director, Canal & River Trust, said:
“We’re delighted to celebrate the completion of this major programme of towpath improvements across Huddersfield. These canals connect communities and provide a greener, healthier way to travel around the area.
“Our canals are much-loved community spaces and these upgrades to towpaths the full length of both the Huddersfield Narrow and Huddersfield Broad canals will help thousands more people enjoy them, whether that’s walking to work, cycling to school, going for a run, or simply spending time by the water.”
The completion of the improvements also comes during a significant year for the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, with 2026 marking the 25th anniversary of its restoration and reopening, highlighting the continued importance of the waterways to communities across the region.