Prolonged rain needed over several weeks before canal locks can open
27/08/2025
Water is at historically low levels at the canal feeder reservoirs
Water levels at the three reservoirs which feed into the Oxford Canal have fallen to historically low levels leading to boat users having to remain where they are, with all locks closed on the waterway between Claydon and Aynho. The closure will remain in place until enough rain falls to replenish supplies.
A lock closure came into force between Claydon and Little Bourton on August 15. The addition of all locks down as far as Aynho Weir Lock was added last week.
The Canal and River Trust said: “We have continued to monitor the exceptionally dry conditions, and the impact on our reservoirs. Unfortunately, despite all our operational efforts, as rainfall has remained well below the long-term average water levels in our feeder reservoirs are continuing to fall due to canal water demands.”
The Oxford Canal is fed by reservoirs at Wormleighton, Boddington and Clattercote. Levels at all three sites have been falling since the very dry spring.
An initial set of restrictions on lock operating hours were brought in for boaters during July.
The Canal and River Trust have warned that the situation could take some time to resolve: “If it rains enough to allow safe navigation, restrictions will be lifted: 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, and our priority is to reopen the canal to full navigation as soon as possible.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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