The old canal is derelict and unsightly as it passes through North East Derbyshire, a former coal mining area now with a lot of deprivation and ill health. The area's nature has been depleted over two centuries of industrialisation and is now a nature recovery area. The route is unmanaged making walking difficult and access for mobility scooters and wheelchairs impracticable, A once busy heritage route with birds, fish, amphibians, and used by boats can be restored by volunteers to life again.

Repairing damage and refilling the canal with water we will restore a community asset which local people can use for circular walks (with step free access). Benches and information boards will encourage and inform users. Aquatic, marginal, and terrestrial habitats will be created along the corridor - connecting nature to other corridors. Planting will attract a wide range of species including kingfishers; water voles, and pollinators. Eventually restoring the canal to join the national network.