Descriptions
Update 24 July 2025, 2:21pm
Following on from the notice below, informing of the planned navigational closure from Watford Lock 1 to Kings Lock 38 from 29th July at 4pm, we wanted to provide greater clarity on what you can expect during this period.
While the closure is in place locks will be closed but boaters will be free to cruise along pounds between winding places, this includes the 22 mile pound between Watford Lock flight and Foxton Lock flight.
During the period of the closure, you may see Canal & River Trust workboats navigating. This is because we want to use the opportunity to carry out essential repairs where possible, to minimise any future impact on navigation.
We will be constantly reviewing the situation and as soon as conditions improve enough, we will do our upmost to provide temporary windows of passage through locks to allow boat movement. This will be dependent on water levels improving adequately which is likely to require sufficient and prolonged rain over several weeks, rather than a sudden very heavy downpour.
Original 15 July 2025, 3:53pm
Following continued monitoring of the exceptionally dry weather and its impact on water resources, we have made the difficult decision to temporarily close the Leicester Line (Grand Union Canal), from Watford Lock 1 to Kings Lock 38, to navigation, effective from Tuesday 29 July 2025 at 4pm. 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. Further information about the current restrictions in place in this area due to water resources, can be found here:
- Watford Locks: Watford Lock Flight | Canal & River Trust
- Foxton Locks: Foxton Lock Flight | Canal & River Trust
- Kibworth Top Lock 18 to Kings Lock 38: From Kibworth Top Lock 18 to Kings Lock 38 | Canal & River Trust
We thank you for your support in reducing water use across our network, and reporting leaks or concerns via 0303 040 4040 or our Contact Us page.
