New accessible gateway to Tame Valley Canal opens in Birmingham
The Canal & River Trust is celebrating the completion of a new accessible access point onto the Tame Valley Canal from Kingsdown Avenue in Birmingham.
The new access point has been made possible through the support and collaboration of Midland Metro Alliance and RW Services.
The new entrance provides direct access to the canal and its recently refurbished towpath, creating improved opportunities for local people to walk, wheel and cycle along one of the region's important active travel routes.
For many years, the Canal & River Trust aspired to create an access point at this location.
However, a small section of land outside the charity's ownership, alongside the ongoing demands of caring for more than 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales, prevented the scheme from progressing.
Through a collaborative approach and a shared commitment to delivering social value, Midland Metro Alliance helped turn this long-standing ambition into reality.
RW Services further supported the project by generously undertaking the dropped kerb works required to make the access fully inclusive.
The new access point connects directly to a high-quality tar and chip towpath surface, suitable for walkers, wheelchair users and cyclists.
It strengthens connections between communities including Perry Barr, Birmingham, Great Barr, Walsall and Great Bridge, while supporting active travel and sustainable transport choices.
The scheme will serve up to 25,000 people living within a one-kilometre radius and is located just 500 metres from the nearest railway station, improving access to public transport and encouraging more sustainable journeys.
As well as improving connectivity, the project opens access to a valuable green and blue space, enabling more people to enjoy the physical and mental wellbeing benefits associated with spending time by water.
The improved route creates opportunities for recreation, exercise, family activities and everyday journeys away from busy roads.
