Gloucester Docks have faced challenges recently due to a significant build-up of silt on the canal bed, which has caused narrowboats and barges to become stuck. The charity responsible for managing the docks has confirmed that the situation is improving following repairs to a technical fault and efforts to restore water levels.
Throughout the summer, low water levels contributed to the accumulation of silt at the docks. This problem was exacerbated by a malfunction in the Canal and River Trust’s water management software, which inadvertently lowered water levels further, resulting in some narrowboats grounding in the canal.
A recent incident saw a narrowboat become stuck on the silt, underscoring the impact of the issue. However, the charity confirmed that the software glitch has been fixed and water levels are now returning to normal.
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A spokesperson for the managing charity stated: “The main navigation channel remains accessible to most vessels with care, and conditions are expected to improve further as water levels recover. We are also speaking directly with boaters and boating businesses in the Docks to ensure everyone is safe and has the support they need.”
Concerns about silt accumulation affecting larger vessels have been raised previously by local shipwrights, who fear the build-up could hinder navigation and operations within Gloucester Docks. The primary cause of the silt ingress is water pumped from the River Severn into the docks, which supplies around half of Bristol’s drinking water.
To address the issue, the Canal and River Trust has announced that the next stage of its £2 million dredging programme will commence in the coming weeks to alleviate siltation within the docks. The charity added that it is urgently exploring additional measures to strengthen these efforts and reduce the risk of similar problems arising in the future.
Acknowledging the disruption caused, the Canal and River Trust expressed its apologies to customers and local residents, emphasizing its commitment to collaborating with partners to tackle the siltation challenges at Gloucester Docks and to deliver sustainable long-term improvements.