Description
Original 11 August 2025, 11:57am
As you will be aware, we've been experiencing an extended period of dry weather across the region. The reservoirs that supply the Macclesfield and Peak Forest canals are now at extremely low levels.
Our team is working to manage the situation as responsibly and carefully as possible. With little prospect of substantial rain in the short to medium forecast, we're now putting contingency plans into action to prioritise boater safety and ensure access to essential facilities as we continue to make the most efficient use of the water we have remaining.
We may soon have to introduce temporary navigation closures on some stretches of the canal and install stop planks to conserve water in key areas where boats can remain safely moored. We understand how frustrating navigation restrictions are and want to reassure you that this is not a decision that's taken lightly. However, it's a necessary step to protect the long-term sustainability of the network and continue supporting boaters in these areas.
To help you prepare, we strongly encourage all boaters to start making plans now. This includes:
- Emptying waste tanks
- Filling up water and fuel tanks
- Stocking up on essential supplies
- Considering relocating your boat to areas with services, such as Bosley or Whaley Bridge, where we are aiming to retain water levels, or returning your boat to your marinas.
For customers moored or navigating on the Macclesfield Canal between Bosley Locks and the junction with the Trent & Mersey Canal
Due to reduced water feeds to this section, water levels along this section will now start to get lower and eventually stabilise to match the level of the Trent & Mersey Canal. as it may become lower it will be unsafe to navigate this section.
Over the next week, we strongly encourage all boaters in this area to follow these instructions.
- Emptying waste tanks
- Filling up water and fuel tanks
- Stocking up on essential supplies
- Mooring customers to regularly check and slacken their mooring lines.
- For those visiting or cruising in the area, we recommend making your way to alternative navigations or moving closer to essential facilities.
We want to give everyone as much time as possible to make informed decisions and adjust plans before any navigation closures take place and will keep you updated with the latest news, guidance, and information through our notices and other channels over the coming weeks. Please keep an eye out for further announcements.
If you have an existing Equality Adjustment in place which does not allow you to follow the advice provided in this stoppage notice, please contact the Trust.
Thank you for your ongoing patience, understanding, and support during these challenging times as we continue to do everything, we can to protect the canals and support our boating community through this period.
