Due to prolonged dry weather and ongoing challenges with water resources, reservoir holdings supplying the Oxford Canal and Coventry Canal are lower than would normally be expected for this time of year. This has reduced the amount of water available to support navigation across the network.

To help conserve water resources and maintain navigation for as long as possible, we are introducing restricted operating hours at the following lock flights from Tuesday 28 July 2026:

• Napton Locks (Locks 8 to 16)
• Hillmorton Locks
• Atherstone Locks

The lock flights will be open daily from 10.00am to 3.00pm, with the last boat permitted to enter the flights at 2.00pm. Hawkesbury Lock will remain open throughout the restriction period.

The purpose of this measure is to reduce water demand and allow water levels to recover, helping to ensure there is sufficient water available for navigation during daytime operating hours. We hope these temporary restrictions will support continued cruising throughout the summer period.

The situation is being monitored closely and reviewed regularly. Whilst we hope these measures will be sufficient, further restrictions may be required if water resources do not improve. We will continue to keep customers updated as conditions develop.