Descriptions
Update 20 October 2026, 11:45am
Following the recent period of prolonged rainfall, conditions within the River Skell have now improved sufficiently to allow Locks 1 and 2 on the Ripon Canal to reopen. Locks 1 and 2 will reopen for navigation from 08:00 on Wednesday 21 October 2026. We will review the notice again on the 2nd November 2026 to review the conditions of the water levels.
Original 1 July 2026, 11:51am
Navigation Closure – Rhodesfield & Bellfurrows Locks- Ripon canal Type: Navigation Closure Waterway: Ripon Canal Region: Yorkshire & North East Effective From: 6 July 2026 Until: Further notice (ongoing) Reason: Low Water Levels Affected Section
- From: Lock 1 – Rhodesfield Lock
- To: Lock 2 – Bellfurrows Lock
Closure Details The River Skell, which supplies water to the Ripon Canal, has fallen to critical levels following a prolonged period of low rainfall within the catchment area. To conserve water and protect the canal network, Rhodesfield Lock and Bellfurrows Lock have been closed to navigation. As a result, the Ripon Canal is closed to through navigation. This action has been taken to:
- Reduce water loss through lock operations.
- Protect wildlife habitats along the canal.
- Safeguard moored craft affected by low water levels.
Further Information The situation is under continuous review. An update will be provided once water levels in the River Skell recover sufficiently to allow navigation to resume safely Thank you
