Skip to main content

The charity making life better by water

Oxford Canal Napton and Marston Doles Navigation Closure

Type: Navigation Closure

Waterway(s): Oxford Canal

From: 21 July 2025, 4pm

To: 15 July 2025, 4:18pm inclusive

Region: West Midlands

Reason: Low Water Levels

Subject to review on: 18 August 2025

Location

Closest waterwayOxford Canal
Starts atLock 8, Napton Bottom Lock
Ends atLock 16, Marston Doles Top Lock

Description

Original 11 July 2025, 2:56pm

Canal & River Trust – Navigation Closure Notice Location: South Oxford Closure Start Date: 21st July 2025 at 4pm Following continued monitoring of the exceptionally dry weather and its impact on water resources, we have made the difficult decision to temporarily close the South Oxford to navigation, effective from Monday 21st July 2025 at 4pm. Closure Details

  • Canal Affected: South Oxford Canal
  • Navigation Status: Closed to all boat movements from 21st July at 4pm until further notice
  • Towpaths: Remain open to pedestrians and cyclists

We understand that this closure may cause inconvenience and disappointment, and we want to reassure you that the decision has not been taken lightly. Our aim is to protect the broader network during this period of exceptionally low rainfall and high water demand. How You Can Help

Boaters can continue to support the network by:

  • Sharing locks wherever possible
  • Waiting for other boats before locking through
  • Avoiding unnecessary lock usage
  • Ensuring all paddles and gates are fully closed after use

For further guidance, please refer to the Thrift code - Saving water when boating | Canal & River Trust

We appreciate your support and understanding during this challenging time. If you notice any leaks or water-related concerns, please report them to us via: 📞 0303 040 4040 📧 [email protected]

photo of a location on the canals
newsletter logo

Stay connected

Sign up to our newsletter and discover how we protect canals and help nature thrive