A mile up the Irwell Valley from Bury Bridge is Burrs, where a country park has now been created. A weir was built across the river to divert part of the flow down a feeder canal which was approximately 2 miles long.

The first mile is an open channel, re-furbished in the country park, and includes a significant 3-arched aqueduct across the River Irwell.

The final mile was culverted. It passes close to the town centre but a detailed guide book is required to trace the route. It leads to Elton reservoir, used not only to supply the canal, but also by Elton Sailing Club and for angling.

When the canal was in use 2,000,000 gallons of water per day were abstracted from the river to fill the canal.