Stoppages and Restrictions
• Please note, this page has expired, go to the new page>>
Last update: 9 October 2012
Please note: This is the latest information that we are aware of. Towpath Talk and Mortons Media Group Ltd. is not responsible for any of the information held on this page. Please confirm any stoppages and restrictions with individual waterways prior to travelling:
For Canal & River Trust: www.waterscape.com or telephone 01923 201401.
For River Thames: http://www.visitthames.co.uk/text/1480/winterworks.html
For Avon Navigation Trust: www.avonnavigationtrust.org
LATEST NEWS
SUMMER HOURS
WINTER HOURS
PLANNED STOPPAGES AND RESTRICTIONS
LATEST NEWS:
River Ouse (Yorkshire): Naburn Lock
UPDATE (09 October 2012): Electricians have been on site today and the damage to the electrical systems from being under water is worse than thought. New parts for the systems will be ordered and once they have arrived, they will be fitted. It is anticipated they will take a few days to arrive.
River Trent: Holme Lock
RESTRICTION (Tuesday 9 October - Friday 12 October 2012) There will be some repair works taking place to the spear rods on the sluices at Holme Lock.
The lock will not be closed to boaters, but please expect delays of up to 45 minutes.
Boaters are asked to proceed with caution and to follow the advice given by the workmen on site.
Enquiries: Newark - 01636 675732
River Trent: Newark Town Lock
UPDATE (09 October 2012): Town Lock is now manned again.
Boaters will be assisted through the lock as normal.
River Severn: Gloucester Lock/Upper Lode Lock
UPDATE (09 October 2012): Please note the river levels are high at Gloucester Lock/Upper Lode Lock; an amber alert has been issued.
This means that the river conditions are hazardous due to strong flows and debris. Boaters are advised to proceed with caution and only travel if safe to do so.
Please contact the lock keeper for updates Gloucester Lock 01452 310832.
Gloucester & Sharpness Canal: Purton Timber Ponds
ADVICE (Tuesday 9 October 2012 until further notice) Please be advised there is a sunken Concrete Barge owned by the Gloucester Museum by the Purton Timber Ponds (approx. 20ft from the bank). All that is visible is the tiller. This area will be marked but all boaters/customers are asked to take care in this area.
Enquiries: 01452 318200 (Gloucester Museum)
River Soar: Towpath at Soar Lane for approx. 1500m towards Zouch
STOPPAGE (Monday 8 October - Friday 2 November 2012) The towpath at Soar Lane for approx. 1500m towards Zouch is closed due to vegetation management works being completed along Navigation Dyke to the rear of the towpath in the interests of flood defence. The towpath requires closing throughout the duration of these works to protect the users from falling debris. Signage is displayed and diversions are in place.
The towpath is also closed
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040 during normal office hours.
Kennet & Avon Canal: Lock 22 to Lock 44 Caen Hill Flight
UPDATE (08 October 2012): The boat has been removed from lock 22 and is now against the top gate landing stage at Foxhangers; Caution is advised when navigating this section until the boat can be removed safely from the canal.
Kennet & Avon Canal: River Avon Navigation
UPDATE (08 October 2012): The River Avon is open between Bath & Saltford, navigation is possible but great care is needed.
In an emergency you can contact the River Avon Lock Keeper on 07711 403474
River Severn: Upper Lode Lock
STOPPAGE (Monday 8 October 2012 until further notice) Due to high water levels Upper Lode Lock is closed until further notice.
Enquiries: 03030404040
Worcester & Birmingham Canal: Edgbaston Tunnel
UPDATE (08 October 2012): 08/10/2012 - Unfortunately, contractors will not be able to move the boat until tomorrow and the restriction has therefore been extended until Tuesday 9th October.
Aire & Calder Navigation: All flood locks along the Aire & Calder
UPDATE (08 October 2012): The flood locks have been re-opened over the weekend.
Calder & Hebble Navigation: All Flood Locks Along the Calder & Hebble
UPDATE (08 October 2012): The flood locks have been reopened
Rochdale Canal: Grimshaw Lane Railway Bridge (Adjacent to lock 76)
RESTRICTION (Monday 8 October - Friday 12 October 2012) There will be a navigation restriction for a maximum of 30 minutes.
This is to facilitate bridge inspection works (using roped access techniques)
Enquiries: 01782 785703
Chesterfield Canal: Gringley Lock
STOPPAGE (Monday 8 October - Friday 12 October 2012) A Construction Team will be doing some repair works to the approach walls at Gringley Lock.
Unfortunately, the lock will be closed to boaters while this work is taking place.
The work is estimated to take a week.
Enquiries: Newark – 01636 704481
Oxford Canal: Pigeon's Lock 39, Oxford Canal
UPDATE (05 October 2012): All works have now been carried out at this site, navigation is back to normal.
Aire & Calder Navigation: All flood locks along the Aire & Calder
UPDATE (03 October 2012): The flood locks were closed again last night due to heavy rain. They remain shut this morning.
Calder & Hebble Navigation: All Flood Locks Along the Calder & Hebble
UPDATE (03 October 2012): The flood locks were closed again last night due to high water levels and remain shut this morning.
Trent & Mersey Canal: Between Middlewich Big Lock 75 and Lodge Lane, Bridge 213 Preston Brook
UPDATE (02 October 2012): Reviews of the 2 sites affected by the flooding have continued and preparatory works for the repairs at Croxton have commenced this week. While this is excellent news this will be a difficult project requiring work in the river to complete it. While CRT do not have a detailed programme for the works this will be a number of weeks at least. The work required at Dutton is far more extensive, and CRT are currently working with our contracting partners to determine the design for the repair and the likely timeframe required.
In the coming week CRT are working to reduce further the length of canal out of water particularly at the Dutton end. When a re-watering plan is resolved the customers whose boats are affected will be directly informed.
The canal and towpath remain closed at Croxton (from Big Lock to Bridge 179 at Whatcroft), and at Dutton Hollow (from Acton Quay at Bridge 209 to Bridge 213). Between Whatcroft and Acton the canal level is navigable and customers are able to access the services at Anderton. Anderton Boat Lift remains operational for access to/ from the Trent and Mersey Canal.
Clearly people may not be able to continue their journeys as they would have wished. For those within the section between Whatcroft and Dutton CRT are mapping the available mooring locations and expect to be contacting you about these towards the end of this week. The usual winter moorings at Anderton, Acton and Ollershaw Lane will not be accessible this year to persons outside the isolated section.
If your goal was to travel from the south to the Bridgewater Canal, or are on the Bridgewater Canal with the aim of coming through to Middlewich CRT would ask you now to take the reverse route around the Cheshire Ring. It is acknowledged that this will require additional travelling and CRT have made arrangements with the Bridgewater Canal to relax the constraints of the reciprocal licencing agreement to allow this to happen. However, for this to apply Bridgewater customers on Trust canals should contact the Red Bull office (01782 785 703) and advise of the timing of your journey; and returning Trust customers currently on the Bridgewater Canal should contact Mike Webb at their offices (0161 629 8200) to provide the same information.
CRT have been made aware of some parties wishing to use the Manchester Ship canal as a means of sailing from the isolated section, or to access the main canal network. If you are considering this and wish to be part of a larger group CRT will be happy to share contact details, but please contact Red Bull office to facilitate that.
Rochdale Canal: Luddenden Foot, Rochdale canal, RD-004-003
STOPPAGE (Thursday 27 September 2012 until further notice) A fallen tree has blocked the canal and towpath, approximately 300 metres downstream of Bridge 6.
Tree surgeons will be on site shortly and aim to clear the tree by the end of the day.
Towpath users should follow onsite information and follow the alternative path. Boats are advised to moor well back from the fallen tree and wait for its removal.
The towpath is also closed
Enquiries: 01782 785703
Erewash Canal: Between Pastures Lock Trent Lock
UPDATE (26 September 2012): The pollution incident at Stanton is now under control and the navigation is no longer closed off to boaters.
However, CRT are completing a clean-up operation between Pastures Lock and Trent Lock.
Boaters are asked to proceed with caution while this is taking place, and to follow any advice given on site.
Gloucester & Sharpness Canal/River Severn: Gloucester Lock
STOPPAGE (Monday 24 September 2012 until further notice) Due to heavy rainfall and weather conditions Gloucester Lock is now closed until further notice as the River Severn is in Flood Condition.
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040
Trent & Mersey Canal: Lock 65 Trent & Mersey Canal
RESTRICTION (Wednesday 19 September 2012 until further notice) The bottom gate on the towpath side lock has malfunctioned. The engineering team are assessing the problem and repair as soon as possible.
Navigation using the offside lock is still available despite this restriction.
Enquiries: 01782 785703
Kennet & Avon Canal: Bath Flight - Lock 10 to 11
UPDATE (11 September 2012): This stoppage has been postponed until further notice, due to issues with sourcing materials.
STOPPAGE (Monday 17 September - Saturday 22 September 2012) A 4 hour stoppage is required to dewater the pound and carry out remedial repairs to seal on a damaged section of piling between Lock 10 Wash House Lock and Lock 11 Horse Shoe Bridge Lock on Friday 21st September.
The dewatering will be done between the hours of 9.oo Hours – 13.oo Hours.
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040
River Witham: Near Chapel Hill, Between Mile Post 37 and 38
RESTRICTION (Wednesday 12 September 2012 until further notice) There is an underwater obstruction near Chapel Hill on the River Witham (between mile posts 37 and 38) believed to be a car.
It is off the navigational channel, but CRT are unable to remove the obstruction immediately and will mark it with buoys as soon as possible. As a temporary measure, its location is marked with a cone on the bank.
Please take care in this area and ensure you remain on the correct navigational channel2.
Boaters are asked to proceed with caution until the obstruction is removed.
Enquiries: Newark – 01636 70441
Huddersfield Narrow Canal: Towpath between Moorgate Street and High Street in Uppermill
RESTRICTION (Monday 10 September - Friday 12 October 2012) To ensure protection and safety of the general public during the construction of new stepped access and towpath surface the towpath will be closed from 08:00 to 18:00 hours on weekdays with no work being undertaken at weekends or public holidays unless otherwise agreed.
There is an alternative route via Moorgate Street and High Street
Enquiries: 01782 785703
Rochdale Canal: Between Wriggly Head Bridge & Hollingwood Road Bridge 77
RESTRICTION (Wednesday 5 September 2012 until further notice) There will be restricted access on the towpath which may incurr a delay of around 30 minutes.
Enquiries: 01782 785703
Chesterfield Canal: Between West Stockwith Lock and Shireoaks Marina
RESTRICTION (Thursday 23 August 2012 until further notice) CRT are experiencing large volumes of weed on the Chesterfield Canal and want to make you aware that you may experience difficulties navigating certain sections for the reminder of the Summer and into the Autumn of 2012
This year weed cutting has been taking place on the canal since May and there are currently two weed harvesters removing weed growing from the bed of the canal in the channel.
The weed harvesters have worked from Shireoaks Marina to West Stockwith, though the majority of their work has been concentrated in the Hayton / Clayworth area.
In addition, in certain areas, reeds from the sides of the channel have broken off and have created floating island of reeds in the canal.
These have been seen on the canal between Manton and Drakeholes. CRT are working to remove these reeds using a combination of floating and land based plant to move them to a suitable location to be picked out of the canal, and will continue to do so.
Please email details of any weed sightings to enquiries.emidlands@canalrivertrust.org.uk and using the subject heading WEED WATCH. Please provide specific information on location by referring to bridge numbers and mooring locations wherever possible.
Enquiries: Newark - 01636 704481
Peak Forest Canal: Lock 1 and lock 16 Marple Flight
RESTRICTION (Wednesday 22 August 2012 until further notice Marple locks 1 and lock 16 will both be open from 9am – 3pm today the 22nd August 2012 and tomorrow the 23rd August 2012 as one of the tail gates at lock 14 has partially failed.
The lock remains operable with Trust assistance until a repair can be carried out in the next few days. Therefore CRT have put the flight on assisted passage.
Last entry into the flight will be at 3pm to allow boats to clear by the end of the working day.
Enquiries: 01782 785703
River Ouse (Yorkshire): River Ouse, Clifton: Riverbank between Clifton Road Bridge and Scarborough Rail Bridge
RESTRICTION (Monday 20 August - Friday 9 November 2012) York City Council is carrying out emergency repairs to the river bank. The work will occur each day from 07.00hrs. to 21.00hrs. for 12 weeks from 20th August to 9th November 2012.
Care should be taken when approaching the area between the bridges. There should be no hindrance to the normal river traffic. Small pontoons next to the river bank will prevent stopping at the river bank.
Enquiries: North East Admin Team on 0303 040 4040, or OUT OF HOURS CALL 0800 47 999 47 FOR EMERGENCY ONLY
Huddersfield Narrow Canal: Wool Road Services
ADVICE (Thursday 9 August 2012 until further notice) The pumpout at Wool Road Services is currently out of order due to a card reader error.
The engineers are attending tomorrow and a further update will be issued.
The nearest pumpout facility is located at Lock 21E.
Enquiries: 01782 785703
Trent & Mersey Canal: Shower at Red Bull Services
ADVICE (Tuesday 7 August 2012 until further notice) There is no hot water in the shower at Red Bull Services.
The contractors have been called out but the shower requires a new system.
The nearest shower facilities are at Anderton Services, Bosley Services and the North portal of Harecastle tunnel.
Enquiries: 01782 785703
Worcester & Birmingham Canal: Lock 4
RESTRICTION (Monday 6 August 2012 until further notice) CRT are currently investigating a collapsed culvert which is impacting on the operation of the lock. The lock remains open but it has been necessary to lock closed the top towpath paddle. In addition the lock will be closed overnight between the hrs of 17.30 and 0900. In the coming week it may be necessary to close the lock during daylight hours to allow further investigations into the cause of the collapse. Closures will be posted on Waterscape in advance of the Works.
Enquiries: 03030 404040
Oxford Canal: Bridges 79 and 80
UPDATE (02 August 2012): In addition to the advertised potential of delays of up to 2 hours at bridges 79 and 80, we can now advise that there will be daily closures of 2 hours between 5pm and 7pm at this location.
It is anticipated that this will continue until Monday 15th October 2012.
River Tees: Barrage Reach Area
ADVICE (Thursday 2 August 2012 until further notice) Trial changes to barrage reach timetable for 12 months
Following requests from river users the barrage reach timetable has been revised. The revised timetable will be trialled over a 12 month period. If successful the timetable will be formally issued after the trial period.
All river users should observe the times on the trial timetable and the notes at the foot of the timetable.
Copies of the revised time table are available at the Tees office, please ring 01642 633273 or the Leeds office on 0303 0404040 and will be posted on the barrage slip way
Enquiries: 01642 633273
Caldon Canal: Hazelhurst Winding Hole – (mid-point between Brick Kiln Bridge 33 and Plants Bridge 34)
UPDATE (01 August 2012): Contractors delivering the overhead power line refurbishment works have encountered delays on site, causing a further delay in establishing the scaffolding and netting works over Hazelhurst Winding Hole. As a result, the anticipated completion date has now slipped back.
Shropshire Union Canal: Calveley Services
ADVICE (Monday 30 July 2012 until further notice) The toilets are blocked at Calveley Services and Service block has been closed.
Contractors have been called and will be attending site today Mon 30 July 2012 to empty the sceptic tank.
The pump out and elsan facility at the services are working normally.
Enquiries: 01606-723800
Huddersfield Narrow Canal: Lock 30E
TOWPATH CLOSURE ONLY (Saturday 28 July 2012 until further notice) The towpath at lock 30E has been closed until repair works can be completed.
The navigation is still open.
A towpath diversion is in place between Lock 28E and Lock 31E.
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040
Huddersfield Narrow Canal: Lock 16E
ADVICE (Thursday 26 July 2012 until further notice) Passage at lock 16E is narrow. The boat fender needs to be lifted out prior to entering into the lock. Customers are asked to proceed with caution due to a bulge in the lock wall.
Boats over 6’ 10” wide are advised not to attempt to enter the lock and seek an alternative route for passage.
Enquiries: 01782 785703
Leeds & Liverpool Canal: New Lane Swing Bridge (31)
UPDATE (20 July 2012): Due to an intermittent fault, Bridge 31 – New Lane Swing Bridge, will be manned for passage during the following times:
• 9am to 12pm
• 4pm to 7pm
These passage times will be in place until further notice and passage will not be available in between these times.
Paddington Arm (Grand Union Canal): Little Venice
RESTRICTION (Tuesday 17 July 2012 until further notice) Due to a large amount of duck weed collecting in the Little Venice Pool the entrance is temporally closed so staff can work on clearing it. Operational staff are in the area so if passage is needed please call the number below 15 minutes before and passage can be arranged.
Enquiries: 0207 985 7200
Shropshire Union Canal: TOWPATH CLOSED BR 56-59 WOODSEAVES
TOWPATH CLOSURE ONLY (Tuesday 10 July 2012 until further notice) Due to excessive rainfall the towpath between Bridge 56 (Cheswardine Road Bridge) and Bridge 59 (Tyrley Wharf) has been CLOSED for safety reasons until further notice.
Enquiries: 01606 723800
Peak Forest Canal: Whaley Bridge visitor moorings
ADVICE (Tuesday 19 June 2012 until further notice) Due to the failure of the washwall at Whaley Bridge, the last 40m of visitor moorings before the winding hole have been closed for safety reasons. BW's contractors have assessed the damage and are currently programming the start date for the repair works which are expected to take 5 weeks to complete once on site. Navigation and the towpath will remain open.
Customers are advised to moor at Bugsworth Basin 24 hour moorings.
Enquiries: 01782 785703
River Witham: Boston Lock - Port Of Boston
ADVICE (Friday 15 June 2012 until further notice) BW would like to bring to your attention the need for all vessels navigating within the Ports Jurisdiction Area to monitor VHF Channel 12.
This advice follows an incident at the dock entrance of a small yacht “Spring Time” interfering with the departing vessel Sormovskiy 3064.
Despite attempts by the pilot to contact the yacht on VHF Ch 12, no response was received. The departing vessel is a maximum size vessel for the port, has extremely limited room for manoeuvre and was forced to stop part way through the lock until it was considered safe to continue.
Another incident occurred of a narrowboat not responding to a call from the pilot on a different vessel. Please note that it is a requirement of the Port of Boston under its Annual Standing Notice to Mariners to monitor Ch 12 and an offence under Section 58 of the Merchant Shipping Act for a seaman to omit to do anything that is likely to cause loss, destruction or serious damage to any other ship or structure.
** Note for Grand Sluice and Black Sluice. Following recent incidents, The Port of Boston wish to confirm it considers that the carriage of a marine band radio, capable of receiving and transmitting on VHF Channel 12 is important to the safety of shipping movements in the river and expects that the lock keepers at their respective stations ensure that every vessel proceeding into the tidal waters is equipped with the necessary VHF Radio.**
Enquiries: Newark - 01636 704481
Northampton Arm (Grand Union Canal): Locks 1-17
UPDATE (13 June 2012): The water supply situation has improved over the last few weeks and this allows us to commit to a period of opening during July and August. However there are periods of essential maintenance that still need to continue, the periods when the Arm will be closed are :
Mon 10th Sept until Fri 5th Oct
The Arm will be fully open outside of these windows.
It continues to be essential that boaters conserve water by adhering to the Thrift code.
Trent & Mersey Canal: Rear of Lion Salt Works, adjacent to bridge 193
RESTRICTION (Thursday 12 April - Friday 29 March 2013) The towpath will be restricted to 1.2m wide. This is to facilitate restoration works to Lion Salt Works.
Enquiries: 01782 785703
SUMMER HOURS
Gloucester & Sharpness Canal/River Severn: Lock opening times 2012
UPDATE (19 September 2012)
From: 21st May 2012 08.00 – 19.00hrs
1st October 2012 08.00 – 18.00hrs
22nd October 2012 08.00 – 16.00hrs
All other details remain the same
High Orchard and Netheridge Bridge.
If you require these structures to be lifted /swung passage will need to be booked. A minimum of 24 hours notice must be given. Booking made via telephone 01452 310832 (Gloucester Lock).
Enquiries: 01452 318000
Leeds & Liverpool Canal: Newlay Top Lock to Kirkstall Lock - including Forge Lock. Kirkstall to Newlay Top Lock - Including Kirkstall lock
UPDATE (29 August 2012): Opening times until further notice
As part of Water Control Measure
The first passage will commence at 9am
Leeds & Liverpool Canal: Field lock
UPDATE (29 August 2012): Opening Times Until further notice.
As part of water control measure
First passage will commence at 9am
River Ouse (Yorkshire): Lock operating times
(Tuesday 3 April 2012 until further notice) British Waterways NE Waterways have recently reviewed the locking times published on waterscape for its tidal locks on the River Ouse & Trent. Below is a table showing the corrected times for the River Ouse.
Lock: Naburn
Operating before HW: 3hrs
Operating after HW: 4.5hrs
Booking: 24hr advanced booking required in winter period. Advisory 24hr booking in summer
Summer operating times: 06:00 to 22:00
Winter operating times: 06:00 to 22:00 (1st daylight tide only)
Summer period: Last week in Feb to Mid Oct
Winter Period: Mid Oct to last week in Feb
Comments: End of tidal section of River Ouse
Lock: Selby
Operating before HW: 2.5hrs
Operating after HW: 5hrs
Booking: 24hr advanced booking required in winter period. Advisory 24hr booking in summer
Summer operating times: 06:00 to 22:00
Winter operating times: 06:00 to 22:00 (1st daylight tide only)
Summer period: Last week in Feb to Mid Oct
Winter Period: Mid Oct to last week in Feb
Comments: Connection with Selby Canal.
Enquiries: 0113 2816860
Birmingham & Fazeley Canal: Cambrian Visitor Centre, Birmingham
UPDATE (02 April 2012): From 10 April 2012 the British Waterways Cambrian office will be open between the hours of 10am and 2pm, on Mondays (except for bank holidays), Wednesdays and Fridays.
Gloucester & Sharpness Canal/River Severn: Gloucester Office Updated Opening Hours
(Monday 2 April 2012 - Friday 28 September 2012) UPDATE (28 February 2012): Summer Opening hours for the Gloucester Office - South Wales and Severn Waterway.
Week commencing 2nd April 2012 to week ending 28th September 2012
The office will be open to customers Monday to Friday 9.00 to 13.00hrs
All other times either by appointment or use alternative such as www.waterscape.com
Montgomery Canal: Frankton Locks
SUMMER OPENING TIMES 2012 (Tuesday 27 March - Wednesday 31 October 2012) Lock opening times 12 noon until 2pm, 7 days per week including Bank holidays.
Bookings are required for passage through the locks.
You can book any time before 10am on the day of passage.
To book, please ring the Northwich Office.
Please note there are no passages available without a booking or outside these hours.
To book a passage, call 01606 723800
Enquiries: 01606 723800
Weaver Navigation: Summer lock opening times
(Monday 26 March - Wednesday 31 October 2012)
26th MARCH to 30th SEPTEMBER 2012 Mon-Thurs 08:45hrs - 17:00hrs Friday 08:45hrs - 16:30hrs Sat & Sun & Bank Holidays 10:00hrs - 18:00hrs If passage is required before 8:45am Mon-Fri only, please contact our Northwich office the previous working day before 17:00pm on 01606 7238000 to ensure passage through the lock.
1st OCTOBER to 31st OCTOBER 2012
Mon-Thurs 08:00hrs - 16:15hrs
Friday 08:00hrs - 15:45hrs
Sat & Sun 10:00hrs - 16:00hrs
Must arrive 30 minutes prior to times above to ensure passage. If locks are unattended, please phone the lock keepers as below:
VALE ROYAL LOCKS 07748 936966
HUNTS LOCKS 07748 936964
SALTERSFORD LOCKS 07748 936965
DUTTON LOCKS 07748 936968
Enquiries: 01606 723800
Weaver Navigation: Marsh Lock Passage
Monday 26 March 2012 until further notice If you require passage through Marsh Lock you must give 48 hours prior notice to the Northwich office.
Please note these locks are only operated during office hours Monday to Friday.
All necessary paperwork MUST be in place for the Manchester Ship Canal prior to passage.
During the open weekend season, Marsh Lock is available for passage once in any weekend period subject to prior notice being given to the Northwich office before 16:30pm on the Thursday.
The passage is based on first come first served basis and will normally mean the lock is available for a 4 hour period.
Enquiries: 01606 723800
Shropshire Union Canal: ELLESMERE PORT PASSAGE ON/OFF SHROPSHIRE UNION CANAL
(Wednesday 21 March 2012 until further notice) Boaters wishing to enter or exit the Shropshire Union Canal via the Manchester Ship Canal must first contact Cheshire West & Chester Council to book the swing bridge on 07799 658814 or 07825 865944 during office hours. Please give 48 hours notice.
Boaters also need to book Whitby Lock 1 (Bottom Wide Lock) with British Waterways, Northwich office on 01606 723800 during office hours.
Prior consent from MSC is required (0151 327 1461) and all necessary paperwork must be in place prior to passage.
Please note: No Hire Boats or Shared Ownership Boats are allowed on the Ship Canal.
Enquiries: 01606 723800
Leeds & Liverpool Canal: Bingley Five Rise and Bingley Three Rise
(Monday 12 March - Wednesday 31 October 2012) Summer opening times
First passage commences at 08.15 am
Last passage commences at 16.00 pm
Bank / School Holidays
First Passage commences at 08.15 am
Last passage commences at 18.00 pm
After the last passage time, Bingley Five Rise and Bingley three Rise Will be locked up until the following morning
Enquiries: 01942405700
Leeds & Liverpool Canal: Newlay Top Lock to Kirkstall Lock - including Forge Lock. Kirkstall to Newlay Top Lock - Including Kirkstall lock
(Monday 12 March - Wednesday 31 October 2012) Summer Opening Times
First passage commences at 08.15 am
Last passage commences at 15.00 PM
The time restrictions have been put in place for water conservation.
The last passage time will ensure you pass through all the locks between Newlay and Kirkstall lock before 16.00pm.
Staff will usually be in attendance during working hours in the summer months to provide assistance.
Overnight mooring is available between Office Lock and Kirkstall Lock and also Rodley Visitor Moorings.
Please Note: After 16.00 pm all locks between Newlay and Kirkstall lock will be locked up until the following morning.
Non-stop passage is advised on this section.
Enquiries: 01942405700
Leeds & Liverpool Canal: Field lock
(Monday 12 March - Wednesday 31 October 2012) Summer Opening Hours.
First passage commences at 08.15 am
Last passage commences at 16.00 pm
Bank/School Holiday.
First passage commences 08.15 am
Last passage commences 18.00 pm.
After the last passage time, Field lock will be locked up until the following morning.
Enquiries: 01942405700
WINTER HOURS
River Witham: Torksey Lock
OPENING TIMES (Monday 1 October - Wednesday 31 October 2012) October Lock Hours:
1st: 8am to 2pm
2nd: 9am to 3pm
3rd-8th: 10am to 4m
9th: 11am to 5pm
10th-11th: 12pm to 6pm
12th-15th: 7am to 1pm
16th-17th: 8am to 2pm
18th: 9am to 3pm
19th-22nd: 10am to 4pm
23rd: 11am to 5pm
24th-25th: 12pm to 6pm
26th-30th: 7am to 1pm
Enquiries: Torksey Lock - 01427718202
Chesterfield Canal: West Stockwith Lock
OPENING TIMES (Monday 1 October - Wednesday 31 October 2012) October Lock Hours:
1st: 07-00 to 13-00
2nd: 07-30 to 13-20
3rd: 08-00 to 14-00
4th: 08-30 to 14-30
5th: 09-00 to 15-00
6th: 09-30 to 15-30
7th: 10-00 to 16-00
8th-11th: 11-00 to 17-00
12th-17th: 07-00 to 13-00
18th: 08-00 to 14-00
19th: 08-30 to 14-30
20th: 09-30 to 15-30
21st: 10-00 to 16-00
22nd-25th: 11-00 to 17-00
26th-30th: 07-00 to 13-00
Enquiries: West Stockwith Lock - 01427890204
River Witham: Boston Lock
OPENING TIMES (Monday 1 October - Wednesday 31 October 2012) October Lock Hours:
1st: 8am to 6pm
2nd: 8:30am to 6:30pm
3rd: 6am to 11am & 2pm to 7pm
4th: 6:30am-11:30am & 2:30pm-7:30pm
5th: 7am to 12pm & 3pm to 8pm
6th: 7:30am-12:30pm & 3:30pm-8:30pm
7th: 8am to 1pm & 4pm to 9pm
8th-11th: 8am to 6pm
12th: 8:30am to 6:30pm
13th:6:30am-11:30am & 2:30pm-7:30pm
14th: 7am to 12pm & 3pm to 8pm
15th:7:30am-12:30pm & 3:30pm-8:30pm
16th: 8am to 1pm & 4pm to 9pm
17/18th: 8am to 6pm
19th-30th: 8am to 4pm
Enquiries: Boston lock - 01205364864
Gloucester & Sharpness Canal: Gloucester Office
UPDATE (13 September 2012) Winter Opening Hours for the Gloucester Office - South Wales and Severn Waterway.
Week commencing 1st October 2012 to week ending 22nd March 2013.
The office will be open to customers Monday and Thursdays only - 9am to 12 (noon).
All other times either by appointment or use alternative such as www.canalrivertrust.org.uk
Stainforth & Keadby Canal: Lock operating times
(Tuesday 3 April 2012 until further notice) British Waterways NE Waterways have recently reviewed the locking times published on waterscape for its tidal locks on the River Ouse & Trent. Below is a table showing the corrected times. Please note all times on waterscape will be corrected to match those on the attached table. There have only been corrections made to the locking times at Keadby. Lock: Keadby
Operating before HW: N/A
Operating after HW: N/A
Booking: Book 24hrs in advance with lock keepers
Winter operating times: 08:00 to 16:30
Winter Period: End of Sept to Good Friday
Comments: Connection with Stainforth & Keadby Canal
Lock: West Stockwith
Operating before HW: 2hrs
Operating after HW: 4hrs
Booking: Book 24hrs in advance with lock keepers
Winter operating times: 07:00 to 17:00
Winter Period: End of Sept to Good Friday
Comments: Connection with Chesterfield Canal
Lock: Torksey
Operating before HW: 2hrs
Operating after HW: 4hrs
Booking: Book 24hrs in advance with lock keepers
Winter operating times: 07:00 to 17:00
Winter period: End of Sept to Good Friday
Comments: Conection with Fossdyke & Witham Canal
Lock: Cromwell
Operating before HW: N/A
Operating after HW: N/A
Booking: Book 24hrs in advance with lock keepers
Winter operating times: 08:00 to 16:00
Winter period: End of Sept to Good Friday
Comments: End of tidal section of River Trent
All locks are mechanically operated and manned during the operating times detailed above. All lock operations are managed by British Waterways lock keepers, self-penning is not possible at the above locks.
British Waterways are not an emergency service but assist any user in need of help where possible. Any vessel requiring emergency assistance should call the emergency services on 999 and ask for the coastguard.
British Waterways provide a 24hr freephone call system to deal with emergency operational issues. Freephone canals can be contacted on 0800 4799947
Enquiries: 0113 2816860
Top /\
PLANNED STOPPAGES AND RESTRICTIONS
River Severn: Stourport Master and Junior Head Rowing Event
RESTRICTION (Saturday 13 October 2012) Time: 9am to 4pm.
A rowing event, organised by Stourport Boat Club on the River Severn at Stourport. The navigation will remain open but please proceed with care and listen to the advice of the event organisers.
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040
Trent & Mersey Canal: Between Middle Lock 18 and Shadehouse Lock 19
ADVICE (Thursday 11 October - Friday 19 October 2012) A contractor will be carrying out dredging works to the mooring site between Lock 18 (Middle Lock) and Lock 19 (Shadehouse Lock). Boats may be held up for approximately 15 minutes during certain operations.
Please approach the site with caution.
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040 during normal office hours.
Shropshire Union Canal: Dredging Operations from Wharton Lock to Bunbury Locks
RESTRICTION (Wednesday 10 October - Friday 7 December 2012) Dredging operation works to bring the canal up to Minimum Open Channel Compliance. Boaters may be delayed up to 30 minutes maximum. Please approach the dredger with caution and await a signal from the dredger driver to pass.
The towpath remains open but there may be restrictions during working hours. An operative will escort users through the site in the Calverly area. In most cases no delays will occur.
Enquiries: 01606 723800
Trent & Mersey Canal: Bridge 95A Railway Bridge, Stone
RESTRICTION (Wednesday 10 October - Thursday 11 October 2012) AECOM will be carrying out an underside inspection and condition survey of the structure. The inspection is to be undertaken using access from the canal using a floating pontoon.
All boat traffic on Waterways will maintain priority over the works. Warning signs will be placed 200m and 400m either side of the worksite and banks men will be in place to advise boaters.
The pontoon will be moved out the way and boaters will be allowed to pass causing minimal disruption to the canal network.
Canal & River Trust apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040 during normal office hours
Grand Union Canal: GUS Hedge cutting South East Waterway
ADVICE (Monday 8 October 2012 - Friday 1 March 2013) CRT have commenced the annual hedge cutting round, starting on the 1st October running until 1st March. Please be aware this work will result in thorns on towpaths. The specification includes the clearing of cut thorns from the tow path following a cut of the previous year’s growth, our contractors will blow/sweep/rake/clear the thorns off the path, however there will be areas where some thorns remain on the towpath or blow from the hedge onto the towpath following windy conditions. If you are planning a cycling trip please follow link http://www.waterscape.com/things-to-do/cycling/hints-and-tips for helpful tips. If you have a pet be mindful of tender paws picking up thorns on the path and under the hedgerows following this work.
Enquiries: 03030404040
River Trent: Gainsborough Trent Bridge
RESTRICTION (Monday 8 October - Friday 12 October 2012) Diving Contractors working on behalf of Lincolnshire County Council are to undertake an inspection of Gainsborough Bridge.
The works may require the use of divers, in which case the navigation will remain open during the survey, and the divers will be expected to exit the watercourse to allow the unhindered passage of approaching boating traffic.
Signage will be installed in either direction to warn approaching boaters of the works ahead.
Please approach the site with caution
Enquiries: 01827 252 000 Jon Pritchett
Birmingham Canal Main Line: Rear of ICC to Broad Street Tunnel
RESTRICTION (Saturday 6 October - Wednesday 10 October 2012) The Conservative Party Conference is being held at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Birmingham. For security reasons restrictions will be imposed as follows:
• The towpath on the ICC side of the canal will be closed
• The towpath on the National Sea Life Centre will have limited access
All craft wishing to enter the restriction zone will be subject to a security check by Police which may include a search of the boat by officers and a dog. This will take approximately 15 minutes with the intention of keeping disruption to a minimum. Any communication should be to: Sgt 5872 Donna Jones, Operation PELKIN, Police Headquarters, Operations Support, PO Box 52, Colmore Circus, Queensway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B4 6QN.
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040
River Trent: Wilford Toll Bridge
RESTRICTION (Monday 1 October 2012 - Thursday 21 March 2013) Contractors working with Nottingham Express Transit are to carry out bridge widening works to Wilford Toll Bridge.
These works will require the installation of scaffolding which will reduce the air height underneath the bridge by approximately 0.75m.
Works to the central piers will necessitate the restriction of navigable traffic, where a safety boat will be available to assist with diverting craft.
Navigation users are asked to approach the site with caution and observe any contractor instructions given at the time.
Enquiries: Jon Pritchett on 01827 252 000
Aire & Calder Navigation:From Knostrop Fall Lock to Fishpond Lock
ADVICE (Monday 1 October - Friday 30 November 2012) Leeds Rowing Club has applied to undertake regular rowing activities at the above location. In order to assess the application, trials undertaken by experienced rowers have been planned. Rowing times will be limited to Saturday and Sunday mornings only between 08:00hrs and 14:00hrs. Rowers will observe the navigation speed limits except for the stretch of water from Fishpond Lock to a point 1.2Km upstream of the Lock where speed limits may be exceeded by rowing craft up to a maximum of 10mph.
Skippers of all vessels are advised to pass the trial area with caution and reduce speed when passing or approaching any rowing craft.
Enquiries: North East Team 03030 404040
Leeds & Liverpool Canal: between New Lane Bridge and Burscough
TOWPATH RESTRICTION (Monday 1 October - Monday 26 November 2012) The Restriction will be in place for approximately 8 weeks to ensure protection and safety of the general public during construction of new towpath surface.
The towpath will remain open but due to work taking place a temporary restrictions may apply from time to time.
Work will take place 08:00 to 18:00 hours on weekdays with no work being undertaken at weekends or public holidays unless otherwise agreed.
There will be an alternative route via New Lane, Crabtree Lane and Orrell Lane
Enquiries: 03030 404040
Nottingham Beeston Canal: Meadow Lane Lock
UPDATE (13 September 2012) Due to unforeseen circumstances, this restriction has had to be temporarily postponed.
The towpath will be unaffected in the meantime.
RESTRICTION (Monday 17 September - Friday 21 September 2012) Contractors working on behalf of the Environment Agency are to carry out sluice repair works affecting the river side path leading onto Meadow Lane Lock.
Restriction conditions will be in place during the 17th and 18th September and pedestrians will be escorted safely around the works.
Unfortunately it will not be possible to allow passage through the site from 19th – 21st September and therefore the towpath is to be closed.
Please approach the site with caution and observe any instruction given at the time by contractors on site.
The towpath is also closed
Enquiries: Jon Pritchett 01827 252 000
Kennet & Avon Canal: Bath Flight - Lock 10 to 11
UPDATE (11 September 2012): This stoppage has been postponed until further notice, due to issues with sourcing materials.
STOPPAGE (Friday 14 September 2012) A 4 hour stoppage is required to dewater the pound and carry out remedial repairs to seal on a damaged section of piling between Lock 10 Wash House Lock and Lock 11 Horse Shoe Bridge Lock on Friday 14th September.
The dewatering will be done between the hours of 9.oo Hours – 13.oo Hours.
Enquiries: 0303 040 4040
Regent's Canal: Various locations
ADVICE (Monday 10 September 2012 until further notice) Canal and River Trust have worked this year with Community craft to identify certain locations on its London waterways. These areas will be marked and they should be made available to Community craft as needed. This is to facilitate their users, some with limited mobility, to fully utilise the waterway.
Enquiries: 0207 985 7200
Northampton Arm (Grand Union Canal): Bridge 8 to 9, Northampton Arm
TOWPATH CLOSURE ONLY (Tuesday 14 August 2012 - Friday 30 November 2012) The Towpath between bridges 8 and 9, Banbury Lane, Northampton will be closed from Tuesday 14th August 2012 to Friday 30th November 2012. A third party contractor is carrying out works to upgrade the condition of the towpath as part of a local development scheme. No towpath diversion will be in place. The navigation will remain open throughout the works.
Enquiries: 01908 302500
Oxford Canal: Bridges 79 and 80
RESTRICTION (Tuesday 17 July - Monday 15 October 2012) Major repairs are being undertaken to Bridges 79 and 80 to improve their condition and preserve their heritage value for the future. These works are being undertaken by contractor, May Gurney and the Waterway Recovery Group. During the works there may be short delays of up to 2 hours on your journey due to the restriction caused by the scaffolding.
In addition, the towpath will be closed for up to one week whilst piling works are being undertaken on both bridges. The date for these works will be posted when the works programme is established.
Enquiries: 01908 302518
River Trent: approx. 200m and then 550m south of Dunham Toll Bridge
RESTRICTION (Tuesday 1 May - Monday 31 December 2012) Contractors working on behalf of Anglian Water are constructing a new Water Treatment Intake and Outfall Facility at the Section of River Trent to the immediate South of Dunham Toll Bridge & Pipe Bridge – RT-073 .
The works will require some access from the navigation to allow for the construction of the Outfall and Intake structures close to the bank, but the waterway will remain open at all times.
Boaters are advised to approach the site with caution. Please note at certain times there will be the presence of a safety boat providing cover in the local vicinity.
The Visitor moorings will remain open during this restriction.
Enquiries: Jon Pritchett on 01827 252 000
Aire & Calder/Sheffield & South Yorkshire Navigations: Mechanised Locks - Freight Waterways NE
ADVICE (Tuesday 27 March 2012 until further notice) There have recently been a number of incidents involving vessels passing red traffic lights at mechanised locks, these locks are used by large freight vessels. This notice provides general advice on lock traffic lights in the NE Waterways and is intended to reduce the likelihood of vessel collision at the locks.
LOCK LIGHT INSTRUCTION
Red Fixed Lock keeper in attendance - Do not enter lock. Wait for lights to change or contact lock keeper for advice
Red Flashing Lock keeper not in attendance - Flood conditions do not proceed.
Red & Green Lock keeper in attendance – Self operation not possible at this time. Lock under preparation await further signal or instruction from lock keeper
Amber Lock keeper not in attendance – Lock set to self-operation. Leisure craft proceed with caution and self-operate the lock. Freight craft await instruction from lock keeper and do not enter lock unless instructed by the lock keeper.
Green Lock keeper in attendance – Enter lock & follow lock keepers instructions. Self-operation not available at this time.
Enquiries: 0113 2816860
--------------
Current Issue: June 2013
♦ Biggest ever edition
♦ Win Wi-Fi for your boat
♦ Mooring rules to change
♦ Olympian helps to open canal visitor centre
♦ Your M&S joins the clean-up
♦ Stillwater asks the questions that you want answers to
♦ 380 boats for sale
PLUS:
• Next issue on sale: June 27, 2013