A canal problem – update

It's open again

From the C&RT website as of 3.17pm today

Our team working alongside our specialist contractors have worked extremely hard today at Lock 7 and we are pleased to advise navigation has now resumed along the Audlem Flight of the Shropshire Union canal following a successful temporary repair to the heal post.

Well done C&RT guys........

This was initially drawn to our attention by Dave Martin

Canal closure

A notice published on the Canal & River Trust website (see detail below) states that the canal through Audlem (locks 1 to 15) has been closed because a rotten and potentially dangerous heel post has been found at lock 7.

The C&RT engineers have been on-site today to try to remedy this problem in time for the Historic Boats Gathering on Saturday and Sunday.

Peter Silvester from the Audlem Mill Shop told AoL that the engineers are apparently doing all they can and hope to have the canal open again on Friday afternoon (i.e. this afternoon). Peter says that he believes at least seven boats are waiting above lock 7 hoping to get into Audlem by this evening....

C&RT Report

Detail
From Date: 26/07/2023 14:45
To Date: On-going
Type: Navigation Closure
Reason: Repair
Is the towpath closed? No

Location
Closest waterway: Shropshire Union Canal
Starts at: Audlem Lock 1
Ends at: Audlem Lock 15

Updates
27/07/2023 15:48
Navigation remains closed along the Audlem Flight on the Shropshire Union Canal due to a rotten heel post at Lock 7.
Our team have met with contractors onsite this morning, scaffolding will be installed at Lock 7 tomorrow to allow our specialist contractors to attempt a repair.
A further update will be provided tomorrow afternoon, Friday 28 July.

Description
Please be advised navigation is closed along the Audlem Lock Flight on the Shropshire Union Canal due to an issue at Lock 7.
Following a recent inspection, we have found extensive rot to the heel post which is preventing safe use of the lock. Our contractors have been informed and we are currently creating a method of repair.
An update will be provided tomorrow, Thursday 27 July once we have more information.

C&RT website