River Severn

Navigation Closure at Gloucester Lock update

We have been notified of the above closure by Canal and River Trust

Closest waterway: Gloucester & Sharpness Canal
Starts at: Sharpness Tidal Basin
Ends at: Gloucester Docks 48 Hour - S1 Mooring

Closest waterway: River Severn Navigation
Starts at: Lock 2 Gloucester Lock
Ends at: Upper Lode Lock

Description

Update 12 September 2025, 9:49am

Gloucester Lock Reopening Announcement

Gloucester Lock will reopen for weekend passage only, starting Saturday 20th September with some restrictions in place.

Bridge Works & Air Draft Limitations

Maintenance on the hydraulic rams of the Gloucester Lock lift bridge will begin on Monday 15th September resulting in a limited air draft until Saturday, 27th September.

Please contact the lock keeper for current river levels as this will dictate the air draft restriction.

Dredging Operations

A dredging barge is currently clearing silt from the navigation channel brought in during the recent drought period.

Mooring in Gloucester Docks is not permitted at this time, as dredging is required to ensure safe use.

Transit Guidance

Please transit directly between Llanthony Bridge and Gloucester Lock without stopping in the docks.

Contact CRT at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 03030 404040 for further information..

Please be advised that from Monday 11th August Gloucester Lock will be closed due to low water levels and continuing drought conditions across the UK, the River Severn has dropped to lower than usual levels.

At this time, we are unable to confirm when the lock will reopen.   Water levels are being monitored, and we will provide updates as soon as further information becomes available.   Customers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and avoid Gloucester Lock until the lock is operational.   The canal will remain open and navigable from Gloucester Docks to just above the low-level bridge at Sharpness.   Sharpness port will be prioritising shipping in order to preserve water levels and leisure craft will be required to share transit through the port with ships.   Please contact Sharpness Pierhead on 01453 511968 to make arrangements.   Please be aware that ship movements are prioritised and these temporary arrangements may lead to some delays.   Your support and understanding are greatly appreciated as we take essential steps to help preserve water levels in the canal.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused during this period.   

You are welcome to contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 03030 404040 if you would like to discuss this information with a member of our Customer Service Team.