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Canal Maintenance Services In And Around Manchester

Bilway Marine Services are experts in debris removal, vegetation maintenance, NAV AIDS, safety boat, transporting materials, and operating two historical passenger ferries on the Manchester Ship Canal. Get in touch to learn more about our services.

About Bilway Marine Services

We provide comprehensive services and maintenance along the 36-mile Manchester Ship Canal, from Eastham to Manchester, supporting the area’s growing business and residential development. Our services include vegetation removal, tree surgery, debris clearance, navigation lighting maintenance, rescue missions, and safety boat support. Our dedicated team ensures a cleaner and safer canal environment.

Canal Cleaning Services

Ferry Operations

Vegetation Removal

Our Services

Pollution

Debris Removal

We clear away rubbish, waste, and other debris from the canal. This helps keep the water clean and makes it easier and safer for boats to pass through. Removing debris prevents blockages and protects the environment.

The claw of a tree cutting crane about to cut a tree

Tree Surgery

Our team takes care of trees along the canal. We trim branches, cut down dangerous or dead trees, and make sure trees do not block the waterway. Proper tree maintenance keeps the canal safe for navigation and reduces the risk of falling trees or branches.

Boat by canal navigation aid edited image

Navigation Aid Maintenance

We maintain navigation aids, such as lights and signs, along the canal. These aids guide boats and help them navigate safely, especially in low light or poor weather conditions. Regular maintenance ensures that these lights and signs work correctly, preventing accidents.

cockpit inside a boat with a wood wheel

Safety Boat

We provide a safety boat service to assist with emergencies on the canal. Our safety boats are ready to help with rescue missions and support work, ensuring that anyone on the water is safe. Whether it’s helping a stranded boat, responding to an emergency, or helping TV and film crew, our safety boat team is always prepared to act quickly.

Our Projects

​We manage various projects, including installing water turbines along the canal and supporting local businesses with water transportation and safety boat services for TV and film productions. We also operate two public ferries, The Thelwall Ferry and Hulmes Free Ferry, between Urmston and Flixton. Each ferry can carry up to four passengers, with crossings taking 2-3 minutes. Ferry operations may be cancelled due to bad weather or flood conditions. Pets and bicycles are allowed on board at the ferry person’s discretion.

​Marine Services Team

Founded over 15 years ago by M.D. Steve Ingram. Our dedicated team of nine members plays a vital role in our operations. Anton, our operations manager known as 'Skipper,' leads the team alongside operations supervisor Charlie and skilled deckhands Dom, Alex, Jason, and Lee. Colin, Alan and Mark manage the ferry services, while Laura, our business manager, oversees the company’s strategic direction. Our team holds all necessary licences and certifications, including RYA qualifications, chainsaw operation, and woodchipper use. We uphold the highest Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) standards and are accredited by Safe Contractor.

Bilway Marine Services, based in Manchester, provide canal maintenance services to keep the waterway clean and safe. Our work includes debris removal, vegetation management, navigation lights maintenance, and ensuring the canal is clear for boats. Call us now to learn more about our services.

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