Wendover Canal Trust (WCT) has received numerous Emails/Social media enquiries reporting the low water levels in the Wendover Canal.
It was reported that the sluice near the Wides (which releases water past Weston Turville reservoir) is locked in the fully open position.
Others have expressed their concern about the knock-on effect on the wildlife in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
WCT appreciate hearing from you on these types of issues, but
it is important that CRT hear direct from local people, and not just via WCT.
WCT will share with you our understanding of the situation : –
Most canals, including the Wendover Canal, are managed on behalf of the nation by the Canal & River Trust (CRT).
You need to contact CRT with issues like this. You can reach CRT on
enquiries.londonsoutheast@canalrivertrust.org.uk .
As Wendover Canal Trust are a voluntary organisation who exist to enhance the Wendover Canal in ways that CRT cannot afford.
WCT have heard two reasons for the lower level, it’s partly because the weeds and reeds were particularly well cleared by CRT this winter, so the water is draining away more quickly.
It’s also partly because the water is routed via Wilstone reservoir, and Wilstone reservoir is being kept at a lower level until the forthcoming strengthening works are completed ( more information from the link below)
CRT have told us that they monitor the Wendover water levels regularly.
However, recently CRT may have been busy resolving an unplanned canal closure, when a lock-gate problem arose on Marsworth locks (which is now repaired).
The latest report is that the sluice has now been closed, and so water levels should start to recover. This webpage will be updated as WCT obtain more information.