BW has finally released the long-expected news that boaters will be able to drive their own boats through Standedge Tunnel.
This follows a long period of conducting test runs. The new system will start on 30th March 2009. Passage will take place on three days a week - Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Three boats will be allowed into the tunnel each day, at 45 minute intervals to prevent boaters being affected by the diesel fumes of other boats. Each boat will carry a British Waterways "chaperone", a qualified tunnel pilot who will supervise the passage and offer advice. The pilot would be able to steer the boat through tricky sections of the boater wished but the boater may steer the boat the whole way if preferred. Boaters wishing to use the tunnel must book a passage at least 24 hours in advance by phoning 0113 281 6860 (line open Monday to Friday, 8.30 am - 4.30 pm). More information about this can be found here: http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk/news/news2009a.htm#standedge I have made the official BW craft dimension guide for Standedge Tunnel available here: http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk/documents/tunnel-dimensions.pdf There will also be monthly through trips for passengers on the electric passenger module. These trips will be on the first Saturday of each month, with the first being on Saturday 4th April. The westbound trip leaves Tunnel End, Marsden at 9.00 am and the eastbound trip leaves Diggle at 1.00 pm. The fare will be £10 per person (£8 children and concessions) and places can be booked by ringing 01484 844298. More here: http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk/news/news2009a.htm#standedge2 -- Martin Clark Pennine Waterways Website http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk
