Canal bosses have temporarily closed a nearby canal due to lack of water following "one of the driest Springs on record".

The Trent & Mersey canal in Middlewich is currently closed from Lock 71, Middlewich to Lock 41, Hardingswood but canal bosses say the situation is being monitored daily.

The Canal and River Trust say the closure is from Local 41 to Local 71 only and both junctions connecting to the Macclesfield canal and the Middlewich branch of the Shropshire Union Canal are open.

A spokesperson from the Canal and River Trust said: "This year, we've experienced one of the driest springs on record, consequently water availability across the region is significantly lower than in previous years.

"To help to protect increasingly limited water resources, preserve canal infrastructure and ecology and prolong the supply of water along the Trent & Mersey Canal, we will need to implement the following closures.

"Starting Friday 25 July 2025, navigation will be closed from Lock 71, Middlewich to Lock 41, Hardingswood to help prolong the supply of water to the south of the canal.

"We hope that this notice allows time for boaters to adjust their plans and relocate as needed. If we can offer any windows at all for passage, then we will advise accordingly.

"Where local water levels permit, cruising within the long pounds between lock flights may still be possible. We will continue to monitor the situation daily and will provide fortnightly updates, or sooner if conditions change.

"Our priority remains to reopen the lock flights as soon as rainfall replenishes reservoirs to sufficient levels. However, despite the measures we are taking, should the situation not improve, further restrictions may be required to the south of the Trent & Mersey Canal.

"If it rains enough to allow safe navigation, restrictions will be lifted immediately: this is likely to require sufficient and prolonged rain over several weeks rather than a sudden very heavy downpour.

"We understand that this continues to be disappointing news, we thank you for your support in reducing water use across our network and reporting leaks or concerns via 0303 040 4040 or our Contact Us page. "

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