Descriptions
Update 13 November 2025, 3:22pm
We're pleased to confirm that the works at Lock 18 on the Ashton Canal have now been completed.
We are currently awaiting the contractors to dismantle the scaffolding before navigation can be reopened.
A further update will be provided on Friday, 14 November.
Update 31 October 2025, 2:41pm
Over the past few weeks, we have been working closely with our heritage team to secure permission to carry out the necessary temporary works to enable us to reopen Lock 18 on the Ashton Canal.
We're pleased to confirm that permission has now been granted and that we have agreed dates with our contractors to begin the works on Wednesday, 12 November. The repairs are expected to take a few days to complete, and we hope to have the canal reopened later that same week.
A further update will be provided on Thursday, 13 November.
Update 16 October 2025, 2:51pm
Following further investigations, we have now scoped potential options and developed a design to repair the lock gate heel. While this is a positive step forward, as the lock is a designated heritage asset, our heritage team are now obtaining permission from the local heritage authority before we can proceed with the works.
We will provide a further update on or before Friday, 31 October.
Update 3 October 2025, 11:38am
During the recent inspections, additional damage was identified to the lock gate heel. As a result, further investigations are now required to assess the full extent of the issue and to develop an appropriate repair method.
A further update will be provided on or before Friday, 17 October.
Original 1 October 2025, 2:44pm
Navigation is currently closed at Lock 18 on the Ashton Canal due the balance beam being damaged, upon an inspection, the balance beam has separated from the lock gate, making the lock inoperable.
Our local team are aware and are now working on a plan for a method of repair.
An update will be provided on or before Friday, 3 October.
