Descriptions
Update 19 March 2026, 2:30pm
Repairs at Beeston Lock 11 have been progressing well, and the planned works on the head gate have now been completed. However, some unexpected conditions on site are affecting the next stage of the programme.
The team has been unable to achieve a full seal on one of our dams. Further investigation has shown voiding beneath the towpath, allowing water to escape around the dam. To safely continue with the gate repairs, the dam now needs to be repositioned so it can form an effective seal.
Because of this, and the extra work required to refit the dam and adjust the pumping arrangements, the lock closure will need to be extended until 27 March. Now that the underlying issue has been identified, we are confident that this new date allows the time required to complete the remaining repairs safely. The team will continue to look for opportunities to accelerate the programme, and if the works can be completed earlier, navigation will be reopened sooner.
There is also a towpath void that will require repair. This repair will be carried out under a local restriction, but navigation will remain open during that phase.
To minimise any further delays, teams will be working at weekends and will also be working longer hours during the day now that we have more daylight. We recognise how important this route is for boaters at this time of year, especially those planning to attend the Easter Gathering at Ellesmere Port, and we are doing everything we can to complete the repairs as quickly and safely as possible.
Original 24 February 2026, 4:06pm
Unfortunately, the condition of Iron Lock 11 has deteriorated, and we now need to bring forward the works that were originally scheduled for next winter. Repairs are required to both the top and bottom gates, as the lock is currently unable to hold water. To complete these repairs safely and effectively, a full navigation closure will be in place for the duration of the works. The team will be working on both the head and tail gates simultaneously and will also be working weekends, which is why the closure is scheduled to finish on a Monday. The team has worked to shorten the schedule as much as possible to reduce disruption. We're sorry for the inconvenience caused by having to undertake these works at this time, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation while this essential work is carried out.
