Towpath Closure: Lock 88, Oxford Street, Rochdale Canal

We're pleased to confirm that works to repair Lock 88 have been scheduled as part of our wider leak repair programme. The repairs will involve injection grouting to seal the leaks and are planned to take place over the winter, starting in mid-January.

Once this phase of work is complete, our teams will reinstall the block paving, after which the towpath will be reopened for use.

We'll share a further update in February 2026.

Please be advised that Lock 88 remains closed on either side due to a flooded towpath on the Rochdale Canal. Anyone passing through does so at their own risk.

Works to repair the lock have been planned to take place during our winter works stoppages this winter. Access points to re-join the canal towpath can be found at Castle Street and Whitworth Street.

A further update will be provided in December 2025.

This notice was originally posted on an old system which has now been upgraded, the original description and latest update have been transferred here. To view any historical updates related to this notice, please click here.

Original message issued 12 June 2024:

Please be advised due to emergency repair works to the towpath at Lock 90 on the Rochdale Canal the towpath between Lock 89 and Lock 92 has restricted access.

Access points to re-join the canal towpath can be found at Castle Street and Whitworth Street.