Lock 42, Shireoaks Top Lock to Norwood Tunnel – Water Management
Update on 01/09/2020:
The navigation closure starts from Lock 41A, Boundary Lock.
NAVIGATION CLOSURE (6am Tuesday 1 September 2020 until further notice)
Canal & River Trust is planning to temporarily restrict navigation movements along a six mile stretch of the Chesterfield Canal from September 1st until further notice.
Enabling boats to cruise our waterways during the most popular boating months (March to October) is a top priority for our charity. However, despite the hard work and continued efforts of our operational and water management teams, we have taken the decision to restrict navigation along part of the canal due to concerns over water levels.
There are three contributing factors:
1) Despite recent rainfall, the first half of the year has been exceptionally dry, and Chesterfield Canal relies on a regular supply of rainfall to replenish its resources.
2) There has been a significant increase in boat movements along the canal since lockdown restrictions were lifted, leading to a higher loss of water than normal as vessels move through locks.
3) As of 20th August 2020, feeder reservoirs at Pebley and Harthill are at 35% of holding capacity, with predictions that the reservoirs will be at the critical level of 20% within four weeks at the current rate of use, unless there is significant rainfall.
By restricting the use of the six mile section between Lock 42 and the summit at Norwood Tunnel to powered craft, we can keep the rest of the canal running as normal.
The Trust is continuing to monitor water levels and will review the decision if there is significant rainfall. We appreciate the patience of users during this time.