A STRETCH of the Llangollen Canal in Whitchurch, Shropshire, has been temporarily closed after a new leak was discovered close to the site of last winter’s major canal collapse
The closure, which began on September 14, just before this issue went to press, comes nine months after millions of litres of water were sent cascading onto nearby land during the early-morning breach on December 22 last year.
The Canal and River Trust confirmed that a wet patch had appeared near the repaired embankment, prompting engineers to halt navigation while investigations continue. According to the Whitchurch Waterway Trust (WWT), the leak is believed to be south of the main works, requiring a temporary closure of the arm, where boat owners have been contacted and offered alternative moorings.
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The incident comes just days after hundreds attended a festival designed to encourage renewed use of the canal following the collapse.
WWT trust chair Mark Lacey said: “Coming so soon after our hugely successful Canal Festival, this is a setback, but we understand that renovating a 200-year old structure built with pick and shovel will throw up obstacles along the way.
“We have an excellent relationship with the CRT project team, and we will work with them to ensure the best possible outcomes for everyone who enjoys the Whitchurch Arm.”
In a statement, the trust confirmed it had contacted all the boats moored on the arm to explain the situation. “Their owners were given the choice either to stay where they are or to leave the arm and move to moorings on the Llangollen Canal,” it read.
“The CRT has advised that the problem could be resolved within weeks or could extend to several months, depending on what they find. WWT is working with CRT to ensure that boat owners are supported during this period, including the provision of fresh water.
As reported, the rebuilt embankment has been reinforced in layers, with full repairs expected to finish by February at a cost of about £10 million.
