Plans for the creation of a new Learning and Access Hub at Dudley Canal Tunnel and Limestone Mines have received a boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Dudley Canal Trust (DCT) has been awarded development funding of £118,000 to help progress its plans for the new facility, which will be located alongside the Birmingham New Road in Tipton. It is anticipated that site investigations; consultations with the public and partner organisations; and the production of detailed plans will take 18 months to complete.

DCT is hoping to secure a HLF grant worth £737,300 towards the cost of the £3.5m hub, which aims help boost the visitor experience of the site, as well as providing new volunteering opportunities. Mike Duley, chair of the project steering group, said: "Dudley Canal Trust has a long-term mission to protect the heritage treasure that lies largely hidden from view beneath Castle Hill and to increase public access and awareness of its international significance."