Springs Branch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal - From Springs Branch Moorings L1 to Bridge 2, Mill Bridge

This section of navigation remains closed and we are continuing to liaise with relevant parties to work towards a resolution.

The restricted width means that powered boats will not get passed the obstruction, therefore such crafts should not proceed past the moorings.

We continue to liaise with owners of Skipton Castle regarding the condition of the rock face and to work towards a suitable resolution.

The Canal & River Trust has been liaising with specialist access teams to ensure that the rock face is no longer moving and that users of the water space below are not at risk.  Plans are being developed to ascertain the requirements of clearing the fallen limestone from the navigation and further investigations are also being carried out on the geology of the area to understand the extent and reason for the slip.

After further research and investigations are complete, Canal & River Trust will hopefully be in a position to provide further feedback.

Update on 11/01/2016:

Our teams have investigated the site.  Some masonry remains in the water and the navigation will be remain closed until further notice.

There is no risk of further rock fall and the pathway has now been re-opened. 

Original message:

The Springs Branch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal is closed due to a rock fall from Skipton Castle. The rock fall has blocked the canal spur and the footpath alongside it and the police have placed temporary barriers at either end of the affected footpath.

Our local team will be visiting the site to investigate further. The main line of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal is unaffected by the rock fall and will remain open.

An update will be issued on Monday 11 January 2016