Anderton Boat Lift closed for next season

IT WAS way back in 2001 that the Anderton Boat Lift was brought back into working order.

And though it had its rams replaced since that time it is now due for a major overhaul, that alas will close the lift, with Canal & River Trust Project Manager Fran Littlewood explaining:

“If all goes well, the plan will be to close the lift in early summer 2025 and reopen it 12 to 18 months later. This means that boaters and visitors can expect to enjoy a full season of boating in 2024 and potentially a short window around the following Easter, before it is wrapped in a protective encapsulation skin to give it a special 150th anniversary upgrade."

The narrowboatworld picture was taken at the reopening  in 2001.

The lift is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, and is a priceless piece of our living heritage. It was brought back to life through a complete restoration in 2001 but needs investment in the upkeep and maintenance of the structure, but now major refurbishment work is required.

At the same time of this there are plans to upgrade the visitor centre.