Descriptions
Update 20 June 2025 2:52 pm
After a lot of detailed work behind the scenes, we've now scoped options and selected a long-term repair plan which will replace all of the gates on the lift something we're confident will make the Anderton Boat Lift safer and more reliable for the future.
The chosen solution will replace the original rope and pulley lifting mechanism with a more resilient actuator-based system to lift and lower the gates. This modern system is more precise, easier to maintain, and will help avoid many of the issues we've experienced with the older rope setup.
While this is a really positive step forward, moving to the new system will require significant investment and careful planning, especially given the historical importance of the lift. We're now developing the detailed designs, working closely with our heritage specialists to ensure the lift's unique character is conserved. This work is being progressed in advance of the wider Anderton Boat Lift refurbishment project, and we're also considering how any new systems will integrate with the broader programme.
With all this in mind, we can now confirm that the Anderton Boat Lift will remain closed throughout 2025. We understand this isn't the news anyone was hoping for, but we want to provide as much clarity as possible, particularly for customers who may now need to plan alternative routes via the Manchester Ship Canal.
If you're planning to travel on the Manchester Ship Canal, bookings for Ellesmere Port and Marsh Lock can be made online via our [[Bookings page]](https://licensing.canalrivertrust.org.uk/?_gl=118u97fm_gcl_auMTQ3MTE5NzY0MS4xNzQ1NTc0MzUwFPAU*MTQ3MTE5NzY0MS4xNzQ1NTc0MzUw), or by calling our North West customer service team on 0303 0404 040. If it's your first time travelling or you'd like more information, visit: Manchester Ship Canal | Discover the River Weaver Navigation.
We'll continue to keep you updated as things progress, with the next update due on or before 29 August 2025. In that update, we'll also share further details about an on-site Information Day, where you'll be able to learn more about the works and repair plans.
Update 23 May 2025 1:06 pm
Since our last update, our engineers have been developing several potential solutions to bring the boat lift back into service. Each will require careful review to ensure the best long-term outcome for this historic structure.
This process will take time and significant investment, but it's important we get it right. While we're still in the early stages, we'll move into detailed design and planning once an option is selected. At that point, we'll have a better idea of timelines.
For now, we do know the lift will remain closed throughout the summer. We'll continue to share updates as progress is made.
If you're planning to travel on the Manchester Ship Canal, bookings for Ellesmere Port and Marsh Lock can be made online via our Bookings page, or by calling our North West customer service team at 0303 0404 040. First-time travelling or need more details? Visit: Manchester Ship Canal | Discover the River Weaver Navigation. Our next update will be shared on or before 27 June.
Update 1 May 2025 9:16 am
Over the last few weeks our engineers and specialists have been carrying out inspections of the structure and have now been asked to come up with several options to allow us to bring the boat lift back into service. Once each option has been carefully reviewed, we'll be able to move forward with the next steps to repair the lift.
Unfortunately, we're not yet able to confirm a reopening date. We're still in the early stages of exploring and reviewing the possible repair options. Once we move into the detailed design and installation phases, we'll have a clearer idea of when the lift can reopen. We do know that the lift will remain closed throughout the summer. We'll continue to provide regular updates as we work to bring this vital historic structure back into operation.
For those planning to visit the River Weaver or our other waterways, passage via Marsh Lock and the Manchester Ship Canal remains available. To support boaters unfamiliar with this route, we're hosting a Manchester Ship Canal Information Day on 16 May at Anderton Boat Lift. The event will offer guidance on navigating the canal, booking requirements, and what to expect.
You can find more details and register on our Manchester Ship Canal (Ellesmere Port & Marsh Lock) Bookings page, or by contacting our North West customer service team on 0303 0404 040.
If it's your first time travelling on the Manchester Ship Canal, or if you'd like a refresher, you can find helpful information here Manchester Ship Canal | Discover the River Weaver Navigation.
Our next update will be shared on or before 23 May.
This notice was originally posted on an old system which has now been upgraded, the original description and latest update have been transferred here. To view any historical updates related to this notice, please click here.
Original 1 May 2025 9:13 am
Original message issued 3 January 2025:
During a planned inspection undertaken in preparation for boats to use the lift today, we experienced a fault with the East river gate. The fault requires further investigation and sadly means that we are unable to operate either caisson on the lift until those investigations and any recommendations are complete. Further investigation will begin this morning as specialist contractors assist our teams to make sure we can reopen the lift as soon as possible.
Our Customer Support Team will be contacting and supporting all those customers who have booked passages that are affected by this temporary closure.
