The Willesden and Kensal Green Connection project comprises two phases. The first phase of the project was completed in May 2025.
The second phase of works involved installing new cables along the canal towpath. This phase began in July 2025 and saw the installation of new equipment and cables to run the cable along the canal. Our teams also planted new hedgerows along the towpath.
Pontoons were used during phase one, but this was not possible during the second phase of works. The cable installation moved along the towpath meaning lengthy sections of the Grand Union Canal towpath needed to be closed while work took place.
Diversions
We are expecting the third towpath closure to take place from mid-September to early October 2026 to facilitate planned cable works along the Grand Union Canal.
A section of the towpath between Acton Lane and Hythe Road footbridge will be closed, with a diversion route in place for pedestrians and cyclists.
Community engagement
In June 2025, we hosted community drop-ins and a webinar to provide information and address questions ahead of our phase two works, and answered any questions regarding the project.
Details and timings of the events that took place in June can be found below:
Event type | Date | Time | Location |
Online webinar | Tuesday 10 June | 6-7pm | Online |
Pop-up event | Tuesday 17 June
| 5-7pm | Entrance to Sainsbury’s canal side at Ladbroke Grove |
Pop-up event | Wednesday 18 June | 5-7pm | Outside The Collective |
Pop-up event | Thursday 19 June | 5-7pm | The canal access on Barretts Green Road |
In-person drop in | 28 June 2025 | 10am-2pm | Queens Park Court Community Hall, Droop St, London W10 4QD |