New Welcome Station to open at Salterhebble Locks

The Canal and River Trust is set to open a new Welcome Station in a historic stable block at Salterhebble Locks.

The Welcome Station will enable people to find out more about the canals, local facilities, wildlife and nearby volunteering opportunities or even enjoy some family activities. It will be run by local volunteers who will greet visitors and give information on what they can do in the area. Over time it’s hoped that the Station could develop into a focal point for walking, school and community groups.

To mark its opening, the Trust is inviting local people along on Saturday 14 May to explore the new Station, find out more about local volunteering opportunities and help local artist Ged Walker paint a mural on the side of the building, inspired by the rich, colourful history of the Calder and Hebble Navigation.

Tom Wright, Development and Engagement Manager for the CRT said; “Salterhebble is a really popular spot and the Welcome Station will be a great focal point directing people to the best wildlife walks, pubs and places to visit. We really hope that local people will come down to the launch, explore a little bit of their local history, have some fun and leave with a real sense of pride in their local waterways. They may even want to volunteer to help run the Welcome Station which would be fantastic".

The launch event is taking place on Saturday 14 May between 10am and 2pm at Salterhebble Locks (Halifax, HX3 0QL) - accessible by car from Wakefield Road (A6026) or a 10 minute walk from Halifax or Sowerby Bridge.

To find out more about volunteering at the Welcome Station, or elsewhere on the region’s waterway network, email becca.dent@canalrivertrust.org.uk.