It's started—Rochdale already closed through lack of water

Published: Monday, 22 April 2019

LAST year was the worst ever for closures of the northern canals, and it looks like it will be the same again, with the Rochdale Canal closed yesterday.

Boaters planning an Easter cruise of the eastern end of the waterway this holiday were disappointed as it is closed from Lock 7 to Lock 13, by the usual reason—shortage of water, Keith Gudgin reports.

Two days into boating season

Just two days into the start of the boating season for many, and a major canal is closed. And there is little doubt that soon the Leeds & Liverpool will follow suit as it did last year, with in fact all the major northern waterways closed during the main August holiday season, through lack of water.

Canal & River Trust tell that the situation is being monitored, but the canal will remain closed until further notice.