A TEAM of Japanese academics have been finding out how green space and industrial heritage in Northwich is benefitting the economy, tourism and residents of the town.

The three academics, led by Professor Tomoko Miyagawa, have been undertaking groundbreaking research on the work of the Mersey Forest for more than 10 years, with brownfield regeneration the focus of this year's visit.

Prof Miyagawa said "We are delighted to be visiting The Mersey Forest again, and continue our collaboration with colleagues into research around brownfield land regeneration.

"The international significance of Cheshire’s salt industry and how it has shaped the landscape, local people and economy is a story to be told across the world."

The group visited the Lion Salt Works, in Marston, and held learned about the four-year and £10million restoration from Cheshire West and Chester Council officers.

They also held meetings at the Anderton Boat Lift and saw the £90,000 restoration of the toll houses, delivered by the Canal and River Trust as part of the Saltscape project.

Paul Nolan, director of The Mersey Forest, said: "We know that Northwich has a fantastic woodlands and parks, connecting Budworth Mere, Anderton Boat Lift, Lion Salt Works as well as the Weaver Navigation, the Trent and Mersey Canal and the town centre.

"This unique area has been valued as a £150m asset and has the potential to become a major destination for visitors, as well as proving a great place for local residents and whilst underpinning sustainable economic growth."