Yorkshire’s historic canals and railways work together

Yorkshire’s historic canals and railways – both dating back to the Industrial Revolution – are working in partnership to continue a centuries-old canal maintenance practice known as ‘ashing up’.

'Ashing up'

We're collaborating with Keighley Worth Valley Railway, Embsay and Bolton Abbey Railway, and most recently Middleton Railway to help maintain water levels across the canal network.

‘Ashing up’ is a traditional method used to seal gaps in lock gates and minimise water loss. The technique dates back to the 19th century, when heavy boat traffic meant water was often in short supply. Lock keepers would apply coal ash overnight to maintain watertight locks, and with steam railways located alongside canals, ash was plentiful and readily available.

Today, we continue to use this time-tested method sparingly while undertaking essential repairs, such as its annual winter restoration and maintenance programme and emergency lock works. 

Over the years a range of modern and organic alternatives – including rubber and polymer sealants, soaked sawdust, wood chips, and natural clay – have been tested. None, however, match the effectiveness of railway ash in creating a reliable watertight seal.

The old ways are the best

Darren Trolley, our team leader in Yorkshire & North East, has decades of experience using this technique along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. He explains: “Sometimes the old ways really are the best when it comes to working on the canals and it’s great to see Yorkshire’s heritage railways and canals supporting each other.

“The process of ‘ashing-up’, is a simple, cost-effective solution that reuses a byproduct of the heritage railways. We pour a small amount of ash into the canal just above a lock, and the flow of water draws it into the gaps in the gates, forming a completely watertight seal. It’s amazing to see this technique in action and to think it’s still being used centuries later.”

Ian Smith, Vice President of Middleton Railway added “This really is a ‘Win, Win’ for ourselves and the Canal & River Trust. We have a responsible way of disposing of our ash, and the Trust can use it to repair locks and keep another heritage operation running for many people to enjoy.”