Ashton Canal closed

THE Ashton Canal is currently closed between locks 1 and 18 as the tail gate of lock 10 has been damaged and it is not known if it needs a simple repair or a replacement gate is required.

Have to be removed

However, the stoppage will be a long one as in any event the gate will have to be removed and taken to a workshop as it cannot be repaired on site, Keith Gudgin tells us.

This is further hindered by the lack of easy access to the site making the work difficult, and it is not yet known what caused the damage.

Two weeks or more

The Trust confirms that the lock will be unusable for at least two weeks, and should a new gate be needed, somewhat longer.

In view of mooring problems on the Ashton Canal, it has been decided to close the whole waterway, with boaters advised to moor at either end at Portland Basin or Piccadilly Basin.