Recent plough dredging works at Stoke Lock were unable to remove the gravel/sand bar immediately downstream of the lock due to insufficient water depth and the coarse nature of the deposits. As a result, a shallow gravel/sand bar remains in place.

A narrow navigable channel is currently available, and the affected area has been marked with buoys to reduce the risk of grounding. These measures are an interim mitigation only. Further plough dredging is not considered a viable solution at this location. We are assessing alternative options, including targeted conventional dredging and will update once a solution is confirmed.

Please proceed with caution and follow on‑site markings and guidance. 

We have had reports of recent groundings on the River Trent below Stoke Lock. We believe that this is due to silt deposit building up, combined with the current low water levels.

Dredging is scheduled to improve this situation and we will update this notice as soon as we have further information.