Canal navigation allowed for one week – subject to water levels
27/10/2025
Although the dry spell has ended the feeder reservoirs haven’t recovered
Boaters on the Oxford Canal are finally able to move their craft today with the Canal and River Trust once again allowing navigation. But with reservoir levels still well below where they should be, the opening is only in place for one week.
A lock closure came into force on the stretch between Claydon and Aynho Weir Lock during August, when water levels at three feeder reservoirs fell to historically low levels.
The Trust is warning that, although the prolonged period of dry weather has ended, there has been little to no recovery in reservoir water levels since the closure came into force.
They are pinning their hopes on an anticipated increase in rainfall over the coming weeks.
This week’s opening offers an opportunity for both boaters and boating businesses, but comes with a warning.
The Trust said: “We’ll be making the most of the remaining reservoir storage to support navigation, but please be aware that water levels may drop unexpectedly. If they fall too low, the canal may become unnavigable, and we could need to close again before the end of the week.
“To give yourself the best chance of completing your journey, we strongly recommend planning your passage for the first half of the week.”
Currently the plan is that all locks in the section between Claydon and Aynho Weir Lock will be open until the end of Sunday, daily between 10am to 3pm.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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