IT IS CLEARLY OBVIOUS that the frequent stoppages caused by Keadby Rail Bridge is a problem for boaters.
For all too often it is closed, though at present it is operational as Keith Gudgin reports today.
Vazons Bridge
Also known as Vazons Bridge, this sliding rail bridge by Keadby Lock allows passage on and off the Stainforth & Keadby Canal.
With it sliding back from over the waterway to allow boat to pass, the working of this bridge is essential to navigation, but the last time it failed was on the 17th November and was repaired yesterday, the 26th of November, with boaters waiting.
Not only are there these long stoppages caused by the failure of the bridge, but are short ones, as we discovered when we last passed though, caused by the system tripping-out and a fella from National Rail having to come and re-set it.
In addition to this there are temperature problems as it will only open for boats to pass through if the temperature is below 15c.
Wary of using
All in all, its idiosyncrasies mean that boaters are wary of using the eastern end of the Stainforth & Keadby Canal, as one boater was told by the person operating the sliding bridge.
Perhaps when confirming a booking through Keadby Lock, either on or off the tidal Trent it would be wise to ask about the present condition of the bridge. The telephone numbers are 07733 124611 or 01724 782205.