More restrictions and stoppages as water shortage bites

Published: Wednesday, 17 August 2022

A DROUGHT has been declared by the National Drought Group across much of the canal network.

As a result  the Canal & River Trust is encouraging boaters to check their routes before they cruise and to follow water-saving best practice wherever possible.

More restrictions

It has now introduced more restrictions on more waterways in an attempt to conserve water, with Keith Gudgin reporting the new restrictions:

Grand UnionMarsworth Flight locks, 39 to 45 open 8am to 4pm. Last entry 2pm.

Grand Union—Braunston Flight, 8am and 5pm only from 30th August.

Aylesbury Arm—Lock 15, 1.30 to 4pm.

Oxford CanalMarston Doles locks 15 and 16, 9am to 4pm with last entry 3.15pm.

Kennet & Avon CanalRiver sections between Hungerford (74) and Fobney (105), possibility of grounding on various sections.

Four closures

Leeds & Liverpool Canalpreviously restricted between River Lock in Leeds and Newlay, now closed.

Leeds & Liverpool CanalBingley Five Rise Top Lock to Dobson Lock will be closed from 5pm today, Wednesday.

Glasson Branch (Lancaster Canal)Glasson flight locks 1 to 6 closed tomorrow, Thursday, at 7am.

Stoubridge Canal is closed from Lock 1 to 16 as a failed paddle has drained the canal.