Harecastle Tunnel, Kidsgrove

The Harecastle Canal Tunnel in Kidsgrove is a notable engineering landmark within the UK's canal network, consisting of two separate, parallel tunnels. Constructed in the 18th and 19th centuries to facilitate the movement of coal and other goods, it significantly contributed to the industrial growth of the region. The older tunnel, designed by James Brindley, was completed in 1777, while the newer one, engineered by Thomas Telford, was opened in 1827. Today, only Telford's tunnel remains in operational use, serving as a key navigational route for canal boaters.