Descriptions
Update 18 May 2026, 3:33pm
Contractors are now expected to be on site on 3 June 2026 to remove the sunken boat using specialist equipment. This work will require the closure of both the towpath-side and offside locks for the day.
Please note that this lock is already subject to a separate closure affecting the offside lock from 1 June to 10 July 2026. Further details can be found via the following link.
Until 1 June, the towpath-side lock remains closed, but navigation is still possible through the offside lock only.
A further update will be issued on 3 June 2026.
Update 13 May 2026, 4:32pm
Contractors are scheduled to be on site on 12 June 2026 to safely remove the sunken boat using specialist equipment. This work will require the closure of both the towpath-side and offside locks for the day.
Please note that this lock is already subject to a separate closure affecting the offside lock from 1 June to 10 July 2026. Further details can be found via the following link.
Until 1 June, the towpath-side lock remains closed, but navigation is still possible through the offside lock only.
A further update will be issued on 12 June 2026.
Update 29 April 2026, 2:43pm
Contractors are currently awaited to undertake the safe removal of the sunken boat.
The towpath side lock remains closed during this period, but navigation is still possible through the offside lock only.
A further update will be provided on or before 13th May 2026.
Update 22 April 2026, 4:51pm
Contractors are currently awaited to commence the safe removal of the sunken boat.
The towpath side lock remains closed during this period, but navigation is still possible through the offside lock only.
A further update will be provided on or before 29th April 2026.
Update 8 April 2026, 3:02pm
Our teams have visited the site and are working with partners to organise a safe method of removal of the sunken boat which will require specialist equipment.
During this period the towpath side lock remains closed, but navigation is possible through the offside lock only.
A further update will be provided on or before 22nd April 2026.
Original 7 April 2026, 11:52am
Please be advised that Kents Lock 45, towpath side, on the Trent & Mersey Canal is closed due to a sunken craft.
Navigation is still possible using the offside lock only.
Contractors have been informed, however we are currently unable to advise a timeframe for the removal of the boat.
An update will be provided tomorrow, Wednesday 8th April 2026.
