Gating proposal for Rochdale Canal

A proposal is being made to close off night-time pedestrian access to the towpath through Piccadilly Undercroft past Lock 85 of the Rochdale Canal in Manchester.

Manchester City Council and the Canal and River Trust are jointly putting forward a plan to erect three gates across the towpath that would be locked at a certain time each evening. This is in an effort to stop problems that have been happening in the area for many years, including indecent activities taking place and inebriated persons falling into the canal.

Boaters pass through the lock without problem but sometimes feel uncomfortable about people hanging around. Most of the problems occur at night at a time when boats are not passing through.

It would appear that it will still be possible for boats to use the lock when the towpath gates are locked as long as crew members are on board the boat to pass the gates, although boaters are encouraged to complete the Rochdale Nine by the end of the afternoon, before the Canal Street area fills with pub and club goers.

One of the proposed gates would go here, below Lock 84.

The Canal and River Trust's David Baldacchino said: "We want to make a difference to what happens in this area. We see this as a key issue to helping develop boating on the South Pennine Ring. Over the years we have tried increasing numbers of people working there, different operating approaches and providing public rescue equipment, none of which has made a significant difference. We cannot be there 24 hours a day, nor can the police or other agencies.

"The next step is a suggestion to close off the towpath at the Undercroft overnight. With that in mind Manchester City Council are inviting comments for such a proposal. [link]

"You may feel that the prospect of closing a section of towpath overnight is very controversial, on the other hand you may think this is an obvious solution to a significant problem and again that the current situation is a huge impediment to developing he canals in Manchester. Whatever your views, your comments are welcomed.

"This is a feasibility study at present, so there is no closing date but the more people that comment the better."

Mr Baldacchino invited people to contact him if they want to talk about the proposal. He also asked anyone who comments to Manchester City Council on the proposal to send a copy to CRT.


A gate is proposed across this entrance to the towpath.


Another gate is proposed across the towpath between the above entrance and the tunnel.


This is the proposed design of the gates.

(Photos and drawing from Canal and River Trust.)

Leeds and Liverpool Re-opens at Rishton

The Leeds and Liverpool Canal has now re-opened to navigation at Rishton, between Blackburn and Burnley. The canal has been closed at this location since 12th September after a section of towpath collapsed and it was realised that the canal was in danger of breaching.

The towpath remains closed for a little longer, probably until Friday 29th November.

The repair work has included stabilisation of the embankment, relining the canal bed and reconstruction of the towpath and wash wall. The work has cost around £300,000.


Location of the re-opened canal at Rishton

Open Day at Wigan Lock

Wigan Pier may be closed but you can still have a day out by the canal in Wigan this weekend at the Canal and River Trust's Open Day.

There will be guided tours around Leeds and Liverpool Canal Lock 87, which is undergoing renovations, as well as the adjoining dry dock and a CRT work boat.

The Open Days are Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th November between 10.00 am and 2.30 pm. Tours start from the Canal and River Trust office at nearby Waterside Drive, where there is free parking. Postcoder for SatNav is WN3 5AZ.

Education and environment teams will be on site displaying some of the activities they take into schools and to events. The Leeds & Liverpool Canal Society will have a stand with some historic information and there will also be some angling taster sessions running nearby.

Tours will include a look at one of CRT's work boats on the moorings outside the office before moving onto the Wigan Dry Dock where North West staff will be on hand to provide information. The tour will take guests over a bridge constructed across lock 87 so that they can view the de-watered lock and hear about what works we are being carried out at the site.

The café at the Wigan Investment Centre will also be open for those who want to finish the tour with a hot drink.


Lock 87 and Dry Dock in Wigan


View Larger Map

Tree blocks Macclesfield Canal

It is reported that the Macclesfield Canal is currently blocked by a fallen tree near Royal Oak Swing Bridge (bridge 49) between Macclesfield and Bosley Locks.

Strong winds are being forecast for the next 24 hours so there is a risk of further blockages caused by fallen trees.

Inspection delay on Rochdale

Boaters using the Rochdale Canal between Rochdale and Manchester face a short delay as Canal and River Trust staff prepare for the winter stoppages.

Lock 61 (Scowcroft Lock) on the Rochdale Canal will be closed tomorrow (Wednesday 9th October) to allow an inspection to determine the work that needs to be carried out over the winter. This will require the lock chamber and tail gate area to be pumped dry.

Scowcroft Lock is near Boarshurst, between Slattocks and Irk Aqueduct. Boaters waiting to pass through should moor up above Lock 60 (Boarshurst Lock) or on the Irk Aqueduct below Lock 63. The canal will be re-opened during the afternoon.

Update Monday 14th October:
It was not possible to carry out the planned inspection on the original date. This stoppage will now take place on Friday 18th October.


Lockl 61, Scowcroft Lock on the Rochdale Canal

One day stoppage on Huddersfield Narrow

Lock 27e of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal will be closed for 24 hours tomorrow (Friday 4th October) to enable repair work to take place.

The work will begin at 8.00 am on Friday and will involve stop planks being put in place so that the head of the lock can be de-watered. Pointing work will be carried out to reduce leaks through the lock walls. The lock will remain closed until 8.00 am on Saturday to allow the pointing to harden.

The stoppage has been timed to reduce the possible impact on boaters booked to pass through Standedge Tunnel.

Any enquiries should be made to Canal and River Trust on 03030 404040.


Lock 27e, Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Leeds and Liverpool Update

Here is an update on the Leeds and Liverpool stoppage at Rishton in Lancashire.

( For 10th October update, see below. )

On September 11th residents reported that a section of towpath had collapsed between Rishton and the M65 Aqueduct. The Canal and River Trust investigated and found that there was a significant leakage though the culvert running below the canal at this point. Had the leaks been allowed to continue the result could have been a major breach of the canal into the River Hyndburn.

The canal was immediately closed and dams constructed so that the affected area could be de-watered.

The Canal and River Trust's further investigation found that unseen leakage through the canal bed has resulted in internal erosion of the embankment. This erosion has caused deep sink holes on the bed of the canal and had led to the embankment collapse.

The repair work will include stabilisation of the embankment, relining the canal bed and reconstruction of the towpath and wash wall. The work will cost around £300,000 and should be complete by the end of November.

A temporary access road has been created and a site compound and cabins installed.

This week the silt is being excavated and bog mats laid in the canal bed. The excavator will then be used to investigate and infill the sinks holes within the canal bed. Further updates will be issued in due course.

Boaters forced to overstay by the stoppage should notify the Canal and River Trust so that no enforcement action is taken.

Update Wednesday 23rd October:
It is expected that the canal will be re-opened for navigation on 21st November.


The original towpath collapse. Photo: Canal & River Trust


Dewatered site showing collapsed towpath opposite. Photo: Canal & River Trust


Dewatered site showing temporary dam. Photo: Canal & River Trust

Update Thursday 10th October:
The Canal and River Trust reports that its team has continued with works to excavate a large depth of silt from a 40m length of the canal bed, with the silt being taken off site.

Pumps are being installed to pump water past the site to feed the canal downstream of the affected area.

The sink holes in the canal bed have been excavated, revealing the leakage paths which are shown by bands and pockets of silt. The sink holes have been backfilled with clay and levelled. The full canal profile is now being got ready for re-lining. The culvert lining is being made in Germany and will be shipped towards the end of the construction works.

The Canal and River Trust anticipates that the area will be re-opened for mid-November.

Update Monday 25th November:
The canal has now re-opened to navigation at this location. The towpath remains closed, probably until Friday 29th November.

Rochdale stoppage near Littleborough

Boaters traversing the Rochdale Canal face a hold up after a boat lifted a lock gate on the Littleborough flight.

One of the head gates at Bent House Lock (No 46) has been lifted out of its pot and cannot be operated.
The Canal and River Trust plans to lift the gate back into position on Monday 23rd September. The canal will be closed at this location until this has been done.

Boats coming from Manchester should moor below Lock 48 at Littleborough.

If access is required for the Durn services and water point (Schofield Street), please contact Canal and River Trust on 07879 421 503.

Enquiries about this stoppage can be made on 07879 421 503.

Update Monday 23rd September, 5 pm:
The lock gate has now been fixed and navigation is open.


Bent House Lock on the Littleborough flight

Tree blocks Macclesfield Canal

The Macclesfield Canal is currently closed near Royal Oak Swing Bridge (Fool's Nook) after a large tree has fallen across the navigation.

The section of canal closed is between Lyme Green and Bosley Locks.

Contractors will be on site tomorrow (Friday 20th September) to remove the tree.


Macclesfield Canal between Lyme Green and Bosley

Two Day Closure on Aire and Calder

Whitley Lock on the Aire and Calder Navigation will be closed for two days next week - Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th September.

Contractors will be on site to carry out mechanical repairs to the hydraulics systems from 08.00am until 4.00pm daily. Passage through the lock will not be possible for the first 2 days of these works. After these two days there will be restrictions on the use of the lock.

Enquiries about this stoppage can be made to 0303 0404040.


Whitley Lock

One Day Huddersfield Narrow Stoppage

The Huddersfield Narrow Canal will be closed through Milnsbridge tomorrow (Thursday 19th September) as emergency repair work is carried out.

A leak has caused a large void to open up on the towpath/lock side area at the head of lock 8e at Spring Mill, Milnsbridge. As part of the repair works, the local Canal and River Trust team needs to lower the water level of the pound above the lock. This is to allow pointing works and stone work repairs to take place to the wash wall.

The stoppage will be for a full day, Thursday 19th September, and until 7.30am on Friday 20th September.

Mooring and winding are possible above lock 16e or below lock 1e.

Enquiries about this stoppage can be made on 03030 404040.


Lock 8e, Huddersfield Narrow Canal, Milnsbridge

One Day Rochdale Nine Stoppage

Boaters intending to use the "Rochdale Nine" flight of locks through Manchester should be aware that the locks will be closed tomorrow, Thursday 19th September, in order to remove debris at Lock 87 at the lower end of Canal Street.

Rubbish has built up behind both tail gates at lock 87 so that they will not open fully into the recesses. This is causing navigation problems for wider boats. The water level in the lock and the pound below will be significantly lowered to clear behind the gates.

The towpath will also be closed between lock 87 (Princess Street) and lock 88 (Oxford Street), please follow alternative route along Whitworth Street.

Boaters waiting to use the locks should moor below lock 92 at Castlefield Basin or above lock 84 at Piccadilly Basin.

This stoppage will affect boaters navigating the Cheshire Ring.


Lock 87, Rochdale Canal

Tree blocks Bridgewater near Runcorn

A tree is blocking the Bridgewater Canal between Preston Brook and Runcorn.

A large tree has fallen across the canal at Norton Priory. The Bridgewater Canal Company is taking steps to have the tree removed as quickly as possible. Navigation at this point closed until further notice.

This stoppage does not affect boats travelling between Manchester and Preston Brook Tunnel.

Update Thursday 19th September:
The tree has now been moved from the navigation and the canal has been reopened.


Green Bridge, close to Norton Priory, Bridgewater Canal.

Aire and Calder Locks Stoppage

Birkwood Lock and Kings Road Lock on the Aire and Calder Navigation will be closed to navigation on Tuesday 17th September between 8.00 am and 5.30 pm.

Northern Powergrid will be switching off the power to these locks in order to carry out maintenance of the equipment at the local substation. Passage through the two locks will not be possible during this time as they are controlled from powered consoles.

Birkwood Lock and Kings Road Lock are on the branch of the Aire and Calder Navigation between Castleford and Wakefield.


Kings Road Lock, Aire and Calder Navigation

Leak closes Leeds and Liverpool at Rishton

The Leeds and Liverpool Canal has been closed at Rishton, between Blackburn and Burnley.

The Canal and River Trust were alerted to a towpath collapse on the edge of Rishton, not far from the aqueduct across the M65 motorway. Investigation found that there is significant leakage though the culvert running below the canal at this point, which has resulted in the towpath collapse.

Canal and River Trust staff remain on site and are investigating the matter further. The towpath has been closed with fencing and the navigation is also closed so that the affected section can be de-watered and the situation reviewed.

An update will be issued tomorrow (12th September).

Winding is possible next to the M65 Aqueduct (108aa) or to the west of Side Beet Bridge (106).

Update Thursday 12th September:
The Canal and River Trust are warning that this stoppage may last for quite a long time.

C&RT staff worked overnight constructing dams and are now de-watering the area. The towpath has been fenced off and a lengthy diversion signposted.

C&RT engineers are on site investigating the issues and they expect that an in-depth investigation and programme of repair will be required over the next few weeks.

A further update will be issued on 10th October 2013.

Go to this page to see updates.


Leeds and Liverpool Canal near the location of the collapse in Rishton

Delays as leaks fixed on Huddersfield Narrow

Boaters on the eastern side of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal may face delays this week while work is carried out to stop leaks.

Lock 27e, between Slaithwaite and Marsden is to be closed on Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th September, as the water levels around it are lowered to allow grouting and pointing to take place.

As part of on-going leak prevention work in this area, Canal and River Trust staff have discovered a series of interlinked leakage paths around the head gate area to lock 27e. The complexity of these leakage paths was unexpected needs water levels to be lowered to carry out essential pointing and grouting work and to install linings to the stone stop plank grooves.

Any enquiries about this stoppage should be made to Canal and River Trust on 03030 404040.


Lock 27e, Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Wigan and Johnsons Hillock Lock Restrictions

Wigan and Johnsons Hillock lock flights on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal will be subject to restricted opening times for the next three days.

Because of the current stoppage at Blackburn to repair a lock cill, not enough water is continuing down the canal, resulting in low eater levels. The lock flights at Wigan and Johnsons Hillock will be open only between 10.00 am and 2.00 pm until Sunday.

The top and bottom locks on these flights will be kept locked outside these hours. This is to protect and replenish water supply in these areas.

These restrictions will be in place until Sunday 8th September, when the Blackburn Flight will be re-opened to navigation.

The Canal and River Trust will have additional staff on hand on Sunday to ensure water is fed efficiently to the rest of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Any enquiries about these restrictions should be made to 03030 404040.

Update Friday 6th September:
Important: The Canal and River Trust has now clarified the information about these restrictions. They ask that boaters wanting to travel on one these flights aim to enter the flight at 10.00am. Following the entry of all waiting craft, C&RT staff will ensure that no more boats enter the flights. This means that it will not be possible to do both flights in the same day. C&RT staff are aiming to clear and lock the flights by 2.00 pm.


Johnsons Hillock Locks

Rochdale Bridge Hit Again

Shaw Wood Bridge (number 25) on the Rochdale Canal has been struck by a vehicle leaving it in an unsafe condition. The navigation is currently closed through the bridge and adjacent Lock 15.

Scaffolding will be erected tomorrow (6th September) and the canal will re-open when the bridge has been made safe which is expected to be around 4.00 pm.

Lock 15 and Shaw Wood Bridge are between Todmorden and Hebden Bridge.

The same bridge was struck by a vehicle in a similar incident just six weeks ago.


Shaw Wood Bridge over the Rochdale Canal

Rochdale Nine stoppage

The "Rochdale Nine" locks in Manchester have been closed after one of the locks was damaged by a boat.

A boat has struck the tail gates of Lock 89 of the Rochdale Canal (Tib Lock) so hard that the gates are out of alignment with the result that the lock is not navigable.

The Canal and River Trust will be inspecting the damage and will issue an update when it is known how long the stoppage will last.

This stoppage will affect boaters navigating the Cheshire Ring.

Enquiries about this stoppage should be made by phoning 0303 0404040.

Update Wednesday 4th September:
The gate has been repaired and the navigation has now re-opened.


Lock 89 of the Rochdale Canal

Blackburn delay

Boaters on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal could face delays if they are heading through Blackburn.
A problem has been identified with the tailgate cill at Lock 55, the fourth lock down the flight of six, and the locks are currently closed.

Canal and River Trust staff have been de-watering part of the lock flight so that they can investigate the problem. Sometimes cills are damaged by boats trying to get across them when water levels are too low.

The Canal and River Trust will issue an update tomorrow, 29th August.

Boaters approaching from the west may wish to moor up before reaching the Blackburn area, such as at Riley Green or around Millfield Bridge 92. Boaters approaching from the east may wish to moor at Eanam Wharf, after Bridge 103a, or around Side Beet Bridge 106.

Update Thursday 29th August:
The problem has been investigated and it has been found that the wooden cill and the concrete base have suffered significant damage. The materials and plant required are being ordered and arrangements for access being made. Once everything is in place the repair should take about one week. There will be a further update on Monday 2nd September.

Update Thursday 5th September:
The concrete work has now been completed and will need three days to set. There will be a further update on Friday 6th September.

Update Friday 6th September:
It is expected that the canal can be re-opened to navigation through Blackburn Locks on the afternoon of Sunday 8th September.


Lock 55 in the background. Leeds and Liverpool Canal, Blackburn.

Leeds and Liverpool bridge stoppage near Parbold

Bridge number 36 on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, Spencers Swing Bridge, is to be closed to navigation next Thursday, 29th August, for repairs.

The bridge, between Burscough and Parbold to the west of Wigan, is to be closed so that the contractor can undertake refurbishment works to the hydraulic pressure unit. Work will begin at 7.00 am and should have been completed by 10.00 pm.


Spencers Swing Bridge

One day Huddersfield Stoppage

Lock 23w of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal is closed today for repairs to a broken paddle. Canal and River Trust staff need to de-water a section of canal in order to carry out the repair. It is hoped the lock will be re-opened later today. Staff will keep waiting boaters informed of progress.

Lock 23w is Lime Kiln Lock which is below Saddleworth Railway Viaduct between Uppermill and Dobcross.


Lock 23w below Saddleworth Railway Viaduct near Uppermill

Barton Swing Aqueduct Stoppage

Boaters using the Bridgewater Canal are warned that there will be a stoppage at Barton Swing Aqueduct on the morning of Wednesday 21st August.

The Bridgewater Canal Company engineers need to carry out an urgent repair to the unique swing aqueduct. The stoppage may extend until 2.00 pm.


Barton Swing Aqueduct, Bridgewater Canal

Rochdale stoppage at Hebden Bridge

Boaters using the Rochdale Canal face a delay near Hebden Bridge after the failure of a ground paddle at Lock 8 (Mayroyd Lock).

The head chamber paddle gearing is inoperable. Timber stop planks need to be installed to allow de-watering of the head of the lock so that the repair can take place. The timber planks need to be made to size off site before they can be installed.

The Canal and River Trust will issue an update when it is known how long the work is likely to take.

Lock 8 is half a mile east of Hebden Bridge. Boats heading eastwards may moor or wind at Hebden Bridge. Boats heading westwards may moor or wind above Lock 7.

Update Tuesday 20th August:
The navigation is expected to re-open on Wednesday evening, 21st August. An update will be issued on the 21st August.

Update Wednesday 21st August:
The repair has been completed and the lock has re-opened to navigation.


Mayroyd Lock 8 at Hebden Bridge

Paddle problem delay on Huddersfield

Another problem has developed to cause delays to Trans-Pennine boaters. There is a fault with a tail gate paddle at Lock 13w on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal in Mossley. The fault means that boaters are unable to make a level when filling the lock.

Canal and River Trust staff will be carrying out repairs and these are expected to be complete by Tuesday 13th August.

For the latest information about this stoppage, contact Canal and River Trust on 03030 404040.


Lock 13w, Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Photograph of latest Huddersfield Narrow sinking

As reported here a few days ago, there was an unfortunate incident on Sunday in which a narrowboat sunk at Lock 9w on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal.

The photograph below was taken by local boater Peter Killan and shows that the boat was travelling uphill and was exiting the lock at the time of the incident. The short pound above the lock was low (which is fairly common) and the boat grounded on the head gate cill. It is reported that water was leaking out of the tail end of the lock and that the water level in the lock went down quickly. Before the boater, who is reported to have been single-handing, was able to remedy the situation, the stern of the boat had sunk below the water.


This week's sinking at Lock 9w. Photo: Peter Killan

There is a remarkable similarity to an incident which happened in the same lock two years ago in which a boat entering the lock became stuck on the cill and sunk as water levels dropped quickly.


The 2011 sinking at Lock 9w.

These incidents are worrying for boaters as something similar could happen to anyone. They are not, as many sinkings appear to be, the result of carelessness or inattention. Many boaters will wonder whether they could have done anything differently. Once the head gate is open, leaks at the tail of the lock mean the water level in the lock chamber and the short pound above may fall rapidly. Water can be run down from Lock 10w but the hydraulic paddles are fitted with anti-vandal locks and cannot be opened rapidly in an emergency.

Many boaters will be wondering what the Canal and River Trust has done to address the issues at this lock since the 2011 incident.

Boaters ascending Lock 9w would be well advised, if they see that the pound above the lock looks low (which is likely if they have just filled the lock), to run some water down from Lock 10w before attempting to exit Lock 9w. Boaters descending from Lock 10w should be prepared to run extra water down if the pound below looks low and should not attempt to enter the lock if levels are low.

(Running additional water down should be done with care, so as not to flood the towpath below or drain the pound above.)

More photos of the 2011 incident, including pictures of the recovery, can be seen here.

Leeds and Liverpool starts running out of water

Part of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal has been temporarily shut as water levels have started to run low.

The locks at Gargrave, from Holme Bridge Lock to Stegneck Lock, have been closed to prevent use after water levels became too low. The Canal and River Trust are feeding water into this section of canal and will issue an update tomorrow (Tuesday).

The lock flights at Bank Newton, Greenberfield and Barrowford are currently being closed overnight between 8.00 pm and 10.00 am to help conserve water. A sixty mile stretch of the canal between Gargrave and Wigan was closed in 2010 after reservoirs started running dry and the Canal and River Trust are anxious to prevent a repetition of this.

Update Tuesday 6th August:
The water levels through the Gargrave locks have now been replenished and the area has re-opened to navigation.


Anchor Lock, Gargrave

Barrowford Locks closed on Leeds and Liverpool

Barrowford Locks on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal are currently closed after a problem has emerged with the tail gate cill at Lock 48.

Canal and River Trust staff are de-watering the affected section to carry out investigations. An update will be issed when it is known how quickly the lock can be re-opened.

Update Tuesday 6th August:
Investigations have confirmed that the cill is significantly damaged. The concrete requires re-setting before the cill can be fully repaired.

Canal and River Trust will issue a further update on Friday 9th August.

Update Friday 9th August:
Scaffolding is being installed at the lock today in order to enable access. Pumps are also being installed. The Canal and River Trust team will be working through the weekend to help speed up the job. The work is expected to take approximately one week.

Update Wednesday 14th August:
The Canal and River Trust reports that the damaged concrete has been fully removed along with the timber flooring. The new timber flooring has been prepared and installed. The cills have been installed and will be locked into position today. When this has been done new concrete will be laid. This should take around three days to cure before scaffolding can be removed and the area re-watered. During this period, staff will be completing two sections of wash wall repairs and debris removal at the site.

The Canal and River Trust expects the canal to be open by Monday 19th August. A further update will be issued on Friday 16th August.

Update Friday 16th August:
The Canal and River Trust reports that the cill has been successfully installed and concreted. They are now waiting for the concrete to set before removing the scaffold and pumps. The Trust has taken the opportunity to repair two sections of wash wall, carried out some debris removal and have also repaired some lock gearing.

The area is scheduled to re-open to navigation at around 4pm on Saturday 17th August 2013.


Lock 48 at Barrowford

Sunken boat closes Huddersfield Narrow

The Huddersfield Narrow Canal is currently closed between Stalybridge and Mossley after a boat sunk in Lock 9w near Millbrook.

The lock is expected to be out of action today and tomorrow until the the boat can be re-floated. Boaters navigating the canal should moor above Lock 6w or below Lock 15w until the canal has re-opened.

Lock 9w was the scene of a dramatic boat sinking two years ago.

Update Monday 5th August:
Work to re-float the vessel was under way late this afternoon. The Canal and River Trust will check the lock and expect to re-open it tomorrow morning (Tuesday).

A photo of the boat upended in the lock can be seen here.


Lock 9w, Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Guillotine failure at Todmorden

The Rochdale Canal has been cut in half by the Guillotine Lock in Todmorden. The guillotine gate mechanism at Lock 19 has suffered a mechanical fault and the lock is currently inoperable.

Contractors will be at the lock tomorrow to assess the fault. The Canal and River Trust will then issue an update. Boaters wishing to pass through this lock may moor on the pounds above or below the lock.

Update Monday 5th August:
The Canal and River Trust expects the repair work to be carried out tomorrow (Tuesday). After final checks the lock should re-open at 9.00 am on Wednesday 7th August.

Update Wednesday 7th August:
The repairs have been completed and the lock has re-opened to navigation.


Lock 19, Rochdale Canal at Todmorden

Short stoppages on Huddersfield Narrow

There are a series of short stoppages taking place on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal as the Canal and River Trust deal with a number of issues where repairs are required.

On Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd August the canal will be closed between Locks 5e at Paddock Foot and Lock 6e at Mark Bottoms. The pound will be lowered to enable pointing work to take place to help stop leaks from the pound. Boaters waiting for the work to be completed can moor below Lock 4e or above Lock 8e. It is hoped the pound will be re-opened around 10.00 am on Friday.

Also on Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd August work will be taking place to repair a ground paddle at Lock 28w on the Diggle flight. A new paddle is being made and will be installed on Friday morning. The Canal and River Trust hope the lock will reopen at lunchtime on Friday.

On Friday 2nd August work will take place to repair a damaged head gate cill at Lock 13w. Due to difficulties accessing the cill, the CRT team will need to put a stoppage on at this pound between Lock 13w and 14w in order to undertake a full inspection and repair of the damage. Mooring is possible below Lock 13w and below Lock 15w.


Lock 28w at Diggle

Damaged cill shuts Littleborough flight

The Littleborough lock flight on the Rochdale Canal is currently closed after a boat hit and damaged the head gate cill at Lock 41 at Sladen.

The canal will be closed between locks 36 and 44 until repairs have been carried out.
The River and Canal Trust has been investigating today and will issue an update as soon as they know more.

Mooring upstream is possible below lock 34, with winding possible between lock 33 & 34.

Mooring downstream is possible below lock 48, with winding possible between lock 45 & 46.

Update Friday 26th July:
Until the lock can be properly repaired, the Canal and River Trust will be providing assisted passage through lock 41 between 10.00 am and 2.00 pm in conjunction with the opening times of the Summit.

Note:
Boaters should be aware that, when closed, a lock gate butts up to a wooden cill (or threshold) that forms a water-tight seal against the gate. These wooden cills are usually slightly higher than the adjacent canal bed. Attempting to enter or leave a lock when water levels are too low can result in the boat's skeg catching the cill and damaging it, or even ripping it out of place. This will mean a water-tight seal cannot be made, making it difficult (or impossible) to completely empty or fill the lock. Boaters should not attempt to force a boat over a cill but should ensure that the water level is increased before proceeding. If necessary the Canal and River Trust should be called out to assist.


Lock 41, Rochdale Canal

Bridge strike closes Rochdale Canal

The Rochdale Canal has been closed between Locks 13 and 15 between Todmorden and Hebden Bridge after a vehicle struck the parapet of Shaw Wood Bridge (no. 25) alongside Shaw Plains Lock (no. 15).

Significant damage has occurred to the downstream bridge parapet and an inspection has confirmed that there is a risk of the parapet falling into the canal.

Contractors have been appointed to take down and make safe the affected section of parapet. The canal will reopen as soon as the parapet has been made safe.

Locks 13 and 15 will be locked off until the parapet has been made safe. Winding is available below Lock 16 and below Lock 9.

Update Friday 26th July:
The bridge has been made safe and this section of canal has now re-opened to navigation.


Shaw Wood Bridge over the Rochdale Canal

Police incident leads to stoppage on Macclesfield

A police incident has closed the Macclesfield Canal at Congleton.

The canal and towpath are closed either side of Bridge 75 near Congleton Railway Station until further notice.
The Canal and River Trust will issue an update as soon as they can re-open the area.

Update Thursday 25th July:
The canal and towpath are now fully re-opened.


The Macclesfield Canal below Congleton Station

Water supply restrictions start on Leeds and Liverpool

As the hot weather continues, the first restrictions begin in a bid to conserve dwindling water supplies on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

The lock flights at Greenberfield and Barrowford, on either side of the canal's summit level, will be locked overnight.

The two lock flights will be open for navigation between 10.00 am and 8.00 pm daily. Last entry into each lock flight will be at 7.00 pm. Any boats that have not cleared the flight by 8.00 pm will be locked in overnight although the Canal and River Trust warns of the possibility of the intermediate pounds de-watering during the night.

These restrictions will begin on Monday 22nd July until further notice.

At Barrowford, Locks 41 and 51 will be locked overnight. At Greenberfield, Locks 42 and 44 will be locked overnight.

Update Friday 19th July:
In addition, the lock flights at Bank Newton and Gargrave will be locked overnight. The times will be the same as above, i.e. open between 10.00 am and 8.00 pm with last entry at 7.00 pm. Locks 30 and 35 at Gargrave and 36 and 41 at Bank Newton will be locked overnight.


Barrowford Locks

Water supply problems on Rochdale

The hot and dry weather is resulting in water supply problems on part of the Rochdale Canal.

The Summit pound was closed last week because of low water levels. While the water level was down, investigations into the water loss were carried out and it was discovered that a large void had appeared. Emergency repairs were carried out in an attempt to prevent further water loss and the Summit was re-opened for a restricted period each day.

However, the Summit pound is still not re-filling as expected and so was closed again.

Restricted opening of the Summit is expected to be happen on Thursday 18th, Friday 19th, Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st July between 10.00 am and 2.00 pm.

Anyone intended to navigate across the Rochdale Canal should contact the Canal and River Trust on 03030 404040 for the latest status on this.

Meanwhile the shortage of water at the summit is affecting parts of the canal further down. If boaters find themselves in difficulty. the Canal and River Trust is asking boaters not to attempt to sort things out for themselves, but to call them on 03030 404040 (or 0800 47 999 47 out of hours) and they will send someone to help. Boaters are urged to share locks if possible and to ensure that all paddles are left completely closed.

Update Monday 22nd July:
The Summit pound will continue to be open between 10.00 am and 2.00 pm each day until further notice and the Canal and River Trust will continue to monitor water levels.


The Summit Pound, Rochdale Canal

Swing bridge stoppage near Bingley

There is a stoppage on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal between Skipton and Bingley.

This is because Leaches Swing Bridge (196) just west of Riddleston is closed to navigation due to a pintal failure.

An inspection has revealed that the damage to the bridge is severe and the Canal and River Trust is reviewing the best method of repair. An update is to be issued on Friday 19th July.

Update Friday 19th July:
Repairs to the bridge are being started and could take 4 to 5 days. A further update is to be issued on Monday 22nd July.

Update Monday 22nd July:
The repairs are now complete and the bridge has re-opened for navigation.


Leaches Swing Bridge, Riddleston, Leeds and Liverpool Canal

Johnsons Hillock locks closed

Boaters using the Leeds and Liverpool Canal between Wigan and Blackburn are being affected by a stoppage at Johnsons Hillock Locks.

A cill at Lock 60 has been damaged, making the lock inoperable. This is likely to have happened when a boat tried to enter or leave the lock when the water level was too low, causing damage to the wooden cill that abuts the gate so that it no longer makes a seal.

The Canal and River Trust will issue an update on Friday 19th July.

Boaters wishing to turn back rather than wait can wind below Johnsons Hillock Locks or at Riley Green.

Update Friday 17th July:
The repair is now complete and Johnsons Hillock Locks have re-opened for navigation.


Leeds and Liverpool Lock 60, Johnson's Hillock

Short stoppages on Huddersfield Narrow

The Huddersfield Narrow Canal will be closed between Locks 10e and 11e at Milnsbridge on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th July to enable remedial work to be carried out. This is because of a continuing leak from this short pound. The water level needs to be right down to allow concreting and pointing work to take place. Passage will not be possible during this work.

Boats may be winded below Lock 9e or above Lock 16e, which are also suitable places to moor while waiting for the work to be completed.

A similar stoppage is currently taking place (17th and 18th July) between Locks 28e and 29e between Slaithwaite and Marsden. This is to enable pointing work to be carried out to reduce leakage.


The pound between Locks 10e and 11e at Milnsbridge.

Another one day Marsden stoppage

There will be a further one day stoppage on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal at Marsden on Wednesday 26th June.

The canal will be de-watered between Locks 38e and 39e, at Warehouse Hill, in order for one of the tunnel passenger boats to be repaired. This pound has been chosen as it is a short pound with vehicle access alongside.

The locks will be closed between 9.30 am and 4.00 pm. The towpath will also be closed, with a short diversion signposted.

There was a similar stoppage at the same location on 7th June.


Lock 38e, Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Boat damages bridge on Ashton Canal

Boaters face a further stoppage on the Ashton Canal after a swing bridge was damaged when hit by a boat.

Bridge 15, known as Copperas Lane Bridge or Clockhouse Bridge, is below Lock 17 at Droylsden. Following the boat impact, the bridge is wedged in the closed position. Canal and River Trust staff have been on site to advise boaters and engineers have been called out to assess the damage. CRT will issue a further update as soon as possible.

Any boaters intending to travel through the Ashton lock flight should not set off through Lock 1 or Lock 18 unless they have checked whether the bridge has been re-opened.

This stoppage affects boats navigating the Cheshire Ring. The Ashton Canal has only just re-opened after being blocked by a boat sinking at Lock 13.

The latest situation can be found by calling the Canal and River Trust on 03030 404040. Updates will be added below when they are received.

Update Thursday 13th June:
The bridge has been repaired and the navigation has now re-opened.


Copperas Lane or Clockhouse Bridge, Droylsden

Boat Sinking blocks Ashton Canal

Boaters using the Ashtron Canal are being delayed by a boat that has sunk at Lock 13, by the Strawberry Duck pub.

Canal and River Trust staff are working with the boaters to move the boat and an update will be issued. In the meantime, boats should not start on the lock flight, but wait above Lock 18 or below Lock 1.

This stoppage affects boaters navigating the Cheshire Ring.

For enquiries about this stoppage, please call the Canal and River Trust on 03030 404040.

Update Wednesday 12th June:
The sunken boat has been removed and the navigation has now re-opened.


Lock 13, Ashton Canal

One day Marsden stoppage

There will be a one day stoppage on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal at Marsden tomorrow, Friday 7th June.

The canal will be de-watered between Locks 38e and 39e, at Warehouse Hill, in order for one of the tunnel passenger boats to be repaired. Presumably this pound has been chosen as it is a short pound with vehicle access alongside.

The locks will be closed between 9.30 am and 4.00 pm. The towpath will also be closed, with a short diversion signposted.


Lock 38e, Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Skipton Swing Bridge Closed

Boaters on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in the Skipton area face a long delay after the Gawflat Swing Bridge (176) became inoperable following an impact from a boat.

The Canal and River Trust says that the bridge will be action until further notice and that an update will be issued on Friday 31st May.

Gawflat Swing Bridge is half a mile west of Skipton town centre and is on a popular stretch of canal. The stoppage will particularly affect hirers who need to return their boats to the hire bases by the weekend.

Google Street View of Gawflat Swing Bridge:

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Hiccup on the Huddersfield

This news item should have been reporting a stoppage on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Earlier today CRT issued a stoppage notice today for Lock 13w of the Huddersfield Canal in Mossley, as the top gate was "inoperable" (it wouldn't close). It was believed that the post had lifted out of its pot. A stoppage notice saying that the lock will be shut until Tuesday when further investigations would take place.

The crews of the eight boats from Cheshire Cruising Club that were waiting just below the lock were not happy about that and decided to investigate the problem (as they had nothing else to do).

Exploration with a long pole revealed that a plastic barrier was on the bottom, with the gate riding over it so far and then being unable to close. The boaters managed to pull the barrier out of the water and close the gate.

The eight boats have now successfully passed through the lock and are at Roaches Lock for the night.

The lock still requires some investigation by CRT, as there is some resistance for the last few inches when opening or closing the gate, and water spurting up under the gate suggests that there may be debris preventing a good seal between the gate and the cill, but the gate is at least operable at present.

Cheshire Cruising Club informed CRT that the lock is now passable.


Boater power at Lock 13w