Skip to main content

We're the charity for your canals

Lock 56, South Stratford Canal

Type: Navigation Restriction

Waterway(s): South Stratford Canal

From: 14 August 2026, 5pm

To: 2 October 2026, 9am inclusive

Region: West Midlands

Reason: Low Water Levels

Location

Closest waterwaySouth Stratford Canal
Starts atLock 56, River Lock
Ends atLock 56, River Lock

Descriptions

Update 30 September 2026, 12:37pm

Following recent rainfall and an improvement in water levels, we are pleased to advise that the restriction at Lock 56 on the South Stratford Canal is expected to be lifted and navigation restored by Friday 02 October.

Please note that restrictions remain in place on other parts of the network. Before travelling, we encourage all customers to check the latest notices on our website for up-to-date information on any restrictions or closures that may affect their journey. Notices and stoppages | Canal & River Trust

Update 24 September 2026, 11:44am

This restriction remains in place. Conditions will be reviewed again on Wednesday 30 September.

Original 13 August 2026, 3:57pm

As part of the Trust's ongoing management of water resources, Lock 56 will be subject to a navigation restriction on a trial basis on Friday 14th August from 5pm. The lock will reopen daily between 10am and 5pm from Monday 17th August and will continue to operate within these restricted opening hours until further notice. This trial restriction is intended to help conserve water while maintaining opportunities for navigation. The situation will continued to be monitored daily and will remain under regular review. We will continue to monitor conditions and the effectiveness of these measures on a day to day basis, with any further changes communicated through the Trust's stoppage and restriction notices. The Trust apologises for any inconvenience this may cause and thanks customers for their patience and cooperation whilst these measures are in place.

Stay connected

Sign up to our newsletter and discover how we protect canals and help nature thrive