WILTS & BERKS CANAL TRUST

The first work the East Vale branch undertook in the area was on a section of canal between Grove and Wantage. This self contained length lies between the remains of Grove Top Lock and Limekiln Lock. To the west of the Top Lock the canal has been infilled and is crossed by the new Mably Way link road. Unfortunately at that time the road went in the Amenity Group as it was then did not have the political clout to ensure that enough leeway was given to get the canal back underneath on the correct level, hence the road crosses at just the point where the Wantage Branch left the mainline. Various engineering solutions have been formulated to solve this particular challenge.

The Amenity Group was looking to create small areas of restored canal for the benefit of the local community and this was ideal albeit that there was and remains no regular water supply, the water coming from field and road drainage. The owners gave us a lease on peppercorn rent Work included uncovering the remains of Grove Top Lock from the rubbish and creating a dam at the entrance to Lime Kiln Lock. ( Much of the brickwork at Lime Kiln Lock was removed earlier in the 20thC to build a house in Grove) From the lock the water joins with the counter drain and is piped across the infill. towards the brook .Trees and hedgerow were planted on the towpath side and have created a super wildlife habitat between the canal and the recreation ground. The Top Lock entrance was cosmetically restored using blocks so that from a distance they resemble gates and fenced off to prevent access. The canal provides a green break between Wantage and Grove and is well used by walkers etc. We carry out routine maintenance and tidying up pending strategic decisions for further restoration either side.