Volunteers are needed to help develop local wildlife habitats along the canal in Middlewich.

Throughout March, we’re looking for people to help enhance areas for nature and wildlife in the area surrounding the Three Locks, a popular beauty spot and attraction for holidaymakers passing through the town by boat.

Groundwork Cheshire, Lancashire and Merseyside who lead the Saltscape project are restoring a nearby Grade ll Listed wall as part of Saltscape’s programme to restore and protect the built features of the Weaver valley.  The wall, which was an important feature of the original canal network, is constructed from sandstone and clinker (waste from the nearby saltworks) but has fallen into disrepair is to be saved thanks to funding from the National Lottery’s Heritage Lottery Fund through Saltscape.

Volunteers will work with Saltscape to tidy the trees and vegetation in the area, with a particular focus on supporting biodiversity: creating wildlife refuges, bug hotels and habitat piles to encourage birds, insects, mammals and invertebrates to populate the area.  It’s hoped that this, in turn will make one of the town’s most photographed corners even more picturesque.

Volunteers from Saltscape’s partners, Canal and Rivers Trust and Middlewich Town Council will also be working on the site .

If you’d like to get involved please ring Saltscape on 01606 723 160 and ask to speak to Fiona or Saul,  or email

Photo of the Three Locks at Middlewich : Nick Jones