Leeds & Liverpool Canal drought update

12 August 2010

The closure, which came into force on August 2nd, spans Wigan to Gargrave and accounts for just 3% of BW’s network of canals.

Vince Moran, operations director for British Waterways, said: “While there has been some rainfall in the region in the last few weeks, this has simply not been enough. We are currently suffering one of the worst droughts in a century and we need heavy and sustained rainfall over an extended period to get reservoir levels to a point where we can re-open the section.

“We continue to monitor the situation on a daily basis and are taking this opportunity to carry out some of our winter work programme now in order to minimise disruption later. These works, which are valued in excess of £100,000 include lock gate removal, refurbishment or replacement at three key sites as well as repairs to lock gates and surveying canal structure along the affected the affected stretch.

“Although 60 miles of this canal is closed to navigation it’s important to remember there are still another 67 miles of it to enjoy, as well as a further 2,140 miles open for our customers to experience and all towpaths remain open.”

“We’d like to thank all of our customers, partners and members of the public for their support and patience during this difficult time. We know the closure is a source of disruption and concern to many but we’d like to reassure everyone that we are doing all we can to minimise this and keep everyone informed of events as they progress.”

ends

For further media information, please contact:
Tracey Garrett, Marketing & Communications Manager, British Waterways North
Tel: 0113 281 6850 / 07917 846254 or email tracey.garrett@britishwaterways.co.uk

British Waterways cares for a 2,200-mile network of canals and navigable rivers throughout Britain, working to provide a sustainable future for the inland waterways and generate maximum benefit and enjoyment to all from this unique environmental and leisure resource. We work with a broad range of public, private and voluntary sector partners to unlock the potential of the inland waterways and generate income for reinvestment in their upkeep for the benefit of the millions who visit each year. www.britishwaterways.co.uk