About DCT

During the 1950s there was a concerted attempt by the British Transport Commission to destroy the canal network. A policy of abandonment, neglect and vandalism was implemented to stop navigation and therefore be able to declare the canals unused. A few people stood up and fought to keep the right of navigation and kept the canals open.

In 1959 the BTC proposed closing the Dudley Canal Tunnel and mines officially closing and sealing it in 1962. Faced with the loss of a unique nationally important site some local people re-opened the tunnel and fought to restore it to working order

_{Castle Mill Basin c1900}

The Dudley Tunnel Preservation Society, was formed in 1963 and changed its name to Dudley Canal Trust in 1970.

We have spent 50 years restoring, conserving and trying to secure the future for the Dudley Canal Tunnel and our local canals. Over the years many battles have been fought, some won, others lost, and many friends made.

Why not join us in preserving our heritage.

The work and the fight goes on.

"Dudley Canal Tunnel.
Closed by the Government on behalf of the people.
Re-opened by the people on behalf of themselves"
Vic Smallshire 1962