THE CRINAN Canal will remain closed indefinitely, it was revealed this week.
As the Advertiser went to press, the canal, which spans nine miles from Ardrishaig to Crinan, was closed to all vessels following the discovery of further damage to the lock cill.
The canal was first closed two weeks ago for 10-days after damage to the sea lock was discovered. The area was expected to re-open last weekend.
But last Saturday British Waterways Scotland decided to keep the canal closed after it became clear other parts of the lock were giving ‘cause for concern’.
A spokeswoman for British Waterways Scotland said safety is paramount and the situation was being reviewed on a daily basis.
‘As public safety is at the forefront of our operations, British Waterways Scotland has taken the decision to close the lock once again to minimise any risk. We will not be accepting vessels through the Crinan Canal, certainly for the next few days. We will undertake a detailed assessment of these new problems over the next 48 hours.’
The shock closure of the canal is expected to be a blow to tourism in the area.
Regional Director for VisitScotland, Scott Armstrong, said: ‘The indefinite closure of the Crinan Canal is certainly unfortunate given that we are in the middle of the holiday season, but clearly the safety of visitors must come first.
‘British Waterways Scotland are doing all they can to minimise disruptions, and we would urge visitors to the region to enjoy the myriad of other activities and attractions on offer in the area in the mean time, from historic monuments and castles to nature reserves.’
Anyone planning passage through the canal should check current maritime advice or call the Ardrishaig canal office on 01463 725531.
