Canal users warned to prepare for low water levels

A reservoir pictured with a clear low water level

The Canal and Rivers Trust has warned of possible temporary closures to several waterways due to extremely low water levels in the reservoirs that supply them.

The trust warned boaters along the Macclesfield and Peak Forest canals across Cheshire and Greater Manchester that the situation may change at short notice, and encouraged them to prepare by filling up on water, fuel and essential supplies.

Water resources were dwindling as a result of continued low rainfall, and the trust said it was putting contingency plans into action.

Trust spokesman Matthew Symonds said: "Our canal network is feeling the train after one of the driest springs on record, and several heatwaves already this summer."

The warnings come after the UK's fourth summer heatwave

The trust said it was encouraging all boaters to start making plans, including:

• Emptying waste tanks

• Filling up water and fuel tanks

• Stocking up on essential supplies

• Considering relocating your boat to areas with services, or returning your boat to your marina.

Mr Symonds added: "On-the-ground teams are carrying out numerous tasks to manage water, including manually operating pumps, sealing up lock gates with ash, putting in stop planks, making leak repairs, checking flow gauges and keeping feeders clear."

The trust said it was doing all it can to keep canals open but the situation can change quickly, and it will review the warning on 25 August.