Businesses hit by GU closure

OWNERS of businesses reliant on the Grand Union Canal are complaining that the threat of closures is affecting their income.

The closure of the waterway and possible future closure is having an effect on both hire and cruise companies as well as marinas that rely of the Grand Union Canal, with some pounds having been dry for most of the year.

Continued stoppages

Grebe Canal Cruises at Pitstone Wharf below the junction with the Aylesbury Arm, is right in the middle of the water shortage problem, with its owner worried that the continued stoppages could drive him out of business, being unable to guarantee that boats would be able to cruise.

Already he had to offload passengers from a cruise boat after it became stranded under the Red Lion Bridge during a cruise when it became grounded.

Boat sales suffering

Even boat sales are suffering, with Phil Bassett of Boatshed Grand Union telling that he is losing customers when they discover they can buy a boat but could be unable to move it through lack of water. Using a crane and transporting he told could cost up to £1,500.

Boaters have been contacting British Waterways, concerned that they will be unable to use their boats that are moored on the Grand Union.

At Bulbourne, a boat restorer has had problems both getting the work to his workshop or delivering boats that have been completed.

Ignoring lock rule

At present the Grand Union is open, at just five hours a day, with strict restrictions as to lock usage, though we are told many boaters are ignoring the 'double-up' rule, and working the broad locks with just a single boat.

Of course, there is absolutely no guarantee that the waterway can remain open, and with the continuing lack of rainfall, it would certainly be wise to avoid the Grand Union Canal if possible.