Bridge 1 to Bridge 38 - Peak Forest canal

Due to the continued drawdown of the reservoirs because of prolonged low rainfall and with the forecast for further dry weather, the Trust is reluctantly closing off access to Bugsworth Basin, commencing on Monday 13 August. 

The Marple Flight on the Peak Forest Canal is already closed due to further movement in the lock walls at Lock 11 and will remain closed until the walls can be re-built. 

It’s not clear how long the closure will last for but it’s likely to be throughout August and potentially beyond if there aren’t significant and sustained periods of rainfall. While the closure will prevent use of the basin by boats the towpath will remain open for visitors and the local community to enjoy. 

Please note that the Macclesfield Canal, Bosley Flight (locks 1 to 12), is currently restricted to the period between 8am and 2pm. Whilst this will conserve water in the short term, we expect to temporarily close the canal at Bosley on Monday 13 August.

In the meantime, boaters can help conserve water by: 

• Sharing locks where possible and making the best use of the water available.
• Ensuring paddles are fully closed once they’ve passed through a lock.
• Aiming for minimal contact when navigating through locks by ensuring gates are fully open as they pass through.    
• Pushing gates open using a boat can damage the gate lining, increasing its leakage.