Macclesfield Canal Between Bridges 26 & 27

We have been able to carry out tests this morning and we are pleased to advise that the canal is now open, following the emergency repair works carried out to the 3 areas at Bollington .

Following the draining of the canal today in Bollington, we’ve found 3 areas that needed repairing.  We have been able to clear the silt and grout these today.  They now need to be capped with clay.

Our intentions are to start to refill the canal first thing tomorrow (Thursday) and then to allow a period of testing with the canal refilled to check that the repair has worked.

If everything goes well we expect to be able to reopen the canal by midday on Friday.

Following investigations at site during the day today, we have decided to close the canal at Bollington on Wednesday 5th July and Thursday 6th July.  This will enable the levels in the section of the canal between bridges 26 and 27, above the leakage area to be lowered and a detailed inspection completed.  We are hopeful that targeted repairs can then be carried out.  Our aim will be to reopen the canal by 8th July.

We’ll provide a further update as the inspection and repairs proceed.

We have been monitoring a leak in Bollington which has become substantially worse over the weekend.  We are currently mobilising our contractors and will aim to complete a temporary repair with the canal in water later this week.  However, as a precaution against having to react to an emergency we have decided to close moorings between bridges 26 and 27 for the time being. 

Moorings are available close to Bollington immediately outside these areas, and the towpath and canal are open.  We thank everyone for their cooperation in this matter.