As you will be aware, we’ve been experiencing drought and prolonged dry weather across the country, with the current water shortfall situation in England now defined as a ‘nationally significant incident’. Many of the reservoirs that supply our canals are now at extremely low levels
Our team is working to manage the situation as responsibly and carefully as possible. With little prospect of substantial rain in the short to medium forecast, we’re now putting contingency plans into action to prioritise boater safety and ensure access to essential facilities as we continue to make the most efficient use of the water we have remaining.
We may soon have to introduce temporary navigation closures on more stretches of the network and install stop planks to conserve water in key areas where boats can remain safely moored.
We understand how frustrating navigation restrictions are and want to reassure you that this is not a decision that’s taken lightly. However, it’s a necessary step to protect the long-term sustainability of the network and continue supporting boaters in these areas.
Keep informed
We will endeavour to contact directly all boaters in the affected areas using our most recent boat sighting data and via our notices system.
The current situation with water can change very quickly so we are asking all boaters to ensure that the contact details on your web licensing account are correct and also to sign up to receive notifications for the canal you are on.
Be prepared
To help you prepare, we strongly encourage all boaters to start making plans now. This includes:
- Emptying waste tanks
- Filling up water and fuel tanks
- Stocking up on essential supplies
- Considering relocating your boat to areas closer to services, or if you have a home mooring, return your boat to your marina/mooring
Helping vulnerable boaters
Where we can, we will try to help support boaters who are stranded, prioritising those who are vulnerable and most in need. If you consider yourself to be a vulnerable boater who may need support, please email welfare.mailbox@canalrivertrust.org.uk or call 0303 040 4040 so that we know who may need additional support.
Continuous cruising
If you are a ‘continuous cruiser’ and are in an area that is affected by closures or restrictions, please be assured, any period of reduced movement will not impact your licensing options in future. We will also pause 14-day reminders in these areas to accommodate these challenging conditions. Please moor considerately and share space as best as possible so that others can access facilities.
Look out for further updates
We want to give everyone as much time as possible to make informed decisions and adjust plans before any further navigation closures take place and will keep you updated with the latest news, guidance, and information through our notices and other channels over the coming weeks. Please keep an eye out for further announcements.
Thank you for your ongoing patience, understanding, and support during these challenging times as we continue to do everything we can to protect the canals and support our boating community