Descriptions
Update 31 March 2026, 8:18am
Unfortunately, following further information from the Environment Agency we can confirm that the lock closure will be extended until 11 May 2026.
This is subject to further reviews from the Environment Agency and may change at short notice if further issues arise.
Every effort is being made by the Environment Agency to reopen the navigation when and where possible, and we will update this notice with more information when we're provided with updates.
Further information and updates in the interim can be obtained via the EA National Customer Contact Centre on 0800 80 70 60.
Alternatively, they can be reached via email the local EA team at [email protected] and they will respond.
Update 12 March 2026, 11:39am
The Environment Agency has not yet finalised its repair plan for the lock.
As the plan remains outstanding, the lock will remain closed until 30th March 2026.
We are in regular contact with Environment Agency and further update will be issued as soon as we are provided with confirmed information.
If you would like to contact the EA directly on this matter then they can be contacted by email at: [email protected]
Update 19 February 2026, 10:16am
The Environment Agency's inspection last month has identified critical safety concerns with the lock gates.
They are now developing a repair plan to determine the extent of the work required and the timescales involved.
Until this plan is confirmed, the lock will remain closed. We are in contact with the EA and as soon as the information is provided to us, we will issue a further update to keep all users informed.
This notice will be updated by 15th March 2026, or earlier if we receive confirmed details before that date.
Update 4 February 2026, 2:56pm
The Environment Agency is currently assessing design options for the repairs required at the lock following recent inspections.
At present, the EA has not confirmed a timeline for the necessary works.
We are in contact with the EA and as soon as the information is provided to us, we will issue a further update to keep all users informed.
This notice will be updated by 20 February 2026, or earlier if we receive confirmed details before that date.
In the meantime, the lock will remain closed to all navigation until the repair requirements and programme are fully defined.
Update 21 January 2026, 2:29pm
Navigation through Ware Lock is currently closed. Ware Lock is an Environment Agency's (EA) asset and was closed last week to allow the Environment Agency to carry out an inspection. During this inspection, critical safety concerns were identified with the lock gates. The Environment Agency is now awaiting a report from their contractors to confirm the extent of the works required and when navigation can safely reopen.
As the lock is owned and maintained by the Environment Agency, we are reliant on them completing their assessment and any necessary repairs before the lock can be reopened. While the lock remains closed, boats will not be able to pass through Ware Lock, and customers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly. A further update will be provided by 6 February 2026.
Original 21 January 2026, 1:15pm
Please be advised that navigation through Ware Lock will be suspended due to essential repair works that need to be carried out at the lock.
The suspension is necessary to ensure the safety of our customers and to allow engineers to complete the required repairs as efficiently as possible. During this period, navigation will be suspended through Ware Lock, and customers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly.
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your patience and understanding while these important works are undertaken.
