OnTheCut

16 September 2025 at 13:46

Following the recent period of persistent wet weather, we are pleased to confirm that the Ashton Canal will reopen again on Friday 19 September, between Lock 1 and Lock 18. Boaters are welcome to resume their journeys along this stretch, though we kindly ask everyone to continue to navigate with care and consideration.

When passing through locks, please ensure that all paddles are fully closed. This helps to maintain water levels and prevent unnecessary water loss. We also encourage boaters to aim for minimal contact when operating through the locks. Always take the time to make sure lock gates are completely open before moving your boat through.

If you notice any leaks, damage, or other issues while using the canal, please let us know as soon as possible. Reports can be made by calling 0303 040 4040 or by emailing us through our Contact Us page.

12 September 2025 at 10:14

Navigation remains closed on the Ashton Canal until the situation improves with the joining canals, and this decision has been made to ensure the safety of boaters and to protect the long-term condition of the canal infrastructure and environment.

A further update will be provided on Friday 26 September.

1 September 2025 at 08:06

Due to continuation of the dry weather, the water levels are still not high enough to make it safe to operate the locks so we will need to keep this navigation closed for the time being.

Navigation will remain closed until the situation improves with the joining canals, and this decision has been made to ensure the safety of boaters and to protect the long-term condition of the canal infrastructure and environment.

A further update will be provided on Friday 12 September.

15 August 2025 at 14:56

Water levels are now back on the Ashton Canal, however still not enough water coming in to make it safe to operate the locks so we will need to keep this navigation closed for the time being.

Navigation will remain closed until the situation improves with the joining canals, and this decision has been made to ensure the safety of boaters and to protect the long-term condition of the canal infrastructure and environment.

A further update will be provided on Friday 29 August.

1 August 2025 at 08:32

Due to the continuation of the dry weather, water levels remain low, Locks 1 to 18 on the Ashton Canal will remain closed.

We will continue to monitor the situation daily and will provide fortnightly updates, or sooner if conditions change.

Our priority remains to reopen the locks as soon as rainfall replenishes reservoirs to sufficient levels.

If it rains enough to allow safe navigation, restrictions will be lifted immediately: this is likely to require sufficient and prolonged rain over several weeks rather than a sudden very heavy downpour.

28 July 2025 at 07:40

Due to exceptionally low water levels and ongoing water supply challenges, the Ashton Canal is currently closed to navigation. This decision has been made to ensure the safety of boaters and to protect the long-term condition of the canal infrastructure.

A further update will be provided on Friday 1 August.