Due to time lost because of poor weather, this stoppage has been extended. Rewatering of the canal will take place on 12 and 13 February, followed by the removal of dams and the overpumping equipment. We currently expect the canal to reopen to boaters on 17 February, with the towpath fully reopening on 18 February once the site has been demobilised. Please note that some towpath access points, including the Peeres Road access, may remain closed slightly longer while work continues on the timber steps; however, this will not impact boat movements. We thank you for your patience and understanding while we complete these essential works.

Unfortunately, the current stoppage is being extended and will now remain in place until 13 February. This is due to the recent cold weather experienced on site. As lime mortar is used in the construction process, the low temperatures are significantly slowing its setting and hardening times. This means additional time is needed on site to complete the works to the required standard. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.

Following the dewatering of the canal, our engineering team carried out a detailed inspection of the canal bed and washwalls. This revealed that the towpath-side washwall—particularly near the aqueduct—is in significantly poorer condition than originally expected. Sections of the wall are leaning inward, lack proper foundations, and have large voids at the base. To ensure the canal remains safe and watertight, we have had to revise the scope of the repair works. As a result of these essential additional repairs, the current stoppage will need to continue beyond the original end date. We now plan to reopen the canal on Friday 30 January 2026, and the navigation will remain closed throughout the Christmas period. Please note that poor weather conditions may affect progress and could lead to further delays. To help accelerate the programme, two masonry teams are now on site, and weekend working is scheduled throughout December and January. We appreciate your patience and understanding while we complete these important works to protect the canal's long-term integrity. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Please be advised that the towpath will be closed from 27th October to allow for the safe mobilisation of plant and equipment ahead of the planned stoppage works at Culvert 16 and Strines Aqueduct.  A clearly signposted diversion route will be in place for towpath users during this period.  Please note: Navigation will remain open until 3rd November, after which it will close until 19th December, in line with the advertised stoppage notice.

We're currently in the process of reviewing the publication dates for these works, as additional vital repairs have been identified. As a result, we're re-evaluating the time and resources required to complete everything to the highest standard. While we anticipate that the dates may change, we're committed to keeping you updated and will share any revisions as soon as they're confirmed.

Following a change to the scope of the works, we will now be renewing a 60m length of the canal bed. We will be re-lining the canal bed over Aqueduct 7 (Strines) & Culvert 16 with clay and doing repairs to the masonry wash walls as well as installing new access steps. The canal will need to be dewatered to enable the works, which are planned to control leakage from the canal.

A navigation and towpath closure are required for canal bed, culvert and wash walls re-lining and re-sealing works over the Aqueduct.