Ashton Canal stays shut

The Ashton Canal remains closed following an incident ten days ago in which heavy duty wire becoming entangled in a lock gate.

On 21st April a problem was reported after a length of heavy duty cable became wrapped around part of a tail gate, preventing the gate from being operated.

Following investigation it was discovered that "significant damage" had been caused to the tail gate and lower cill. Repairs required a full dewatering of the long pound between Locks 7 and 8. This meant BW had to obtain consent from the Environment Agency to carry out a fish rescue.

Once the pound was dewatered, it was apparent that "significant repairs" were required to the tail gate cills and lock floor. As this is a listed structure, consent had to be obtained from Manchester City Council's Conservation Officer.

Repairs to thetail gate cills and lock floor will now start early next week.

BW will issue a further update on Thursday 7th May.

This stoppage will affect boaters travelling around the Cheshire Ring and the South Pennine Ring.