Derbyshire County Council has secured a grant of £417,500 from East Midlands Development Agency, as part of a £800,500 package of funds, to improve the 5.5 mile northernmost section of the Cromford Canal that it owns, and thus encourage economic development to the area. Other funding has been agreed with Network Rail and Derwent Valley Line Community Rail Partnership, with the balance coming from Council funds over a three-year period. Work to be financed with the money includes:

• The renovation of the railway footbridge at Whatstandwell.
• Engineering work including the design of new water controls and restoration of structural features.
• Environmental improvements to increase wildlife in the area.
• Improved access to the Canal.
• Improving buildings at High Peak Junction to provide more usable work space.
• Renovating the boiler at Leawood Pump House and creating a video about the historic monument.