Rotherham Council has backed a restoration project for a historic 14-kilometre stretch of the Chesterfield Canal, committing £10,000 towards developing a comprehensive masterplan. The scheme would reconnect waterways between Staveley and Kiveton Park through a combination of engineering solutions, including lock restoration and new recreational infrastructure.

The project envisions multiple community benefits, such as a new marina at Kiveton Waters, expanded walking and cycling connections to existing trail networks, and preservation of significant industrial heritage through restoration of the 13-lock Norwood Flight. Additional elements under consideration include a boat lift, visitor facilities, and a flood-management system integrated into the existing flood defence infrastructure. Full delivery would depend on securing additional funding and approvals over an extended implementation period.