Some hopeful news for narrowboats trapped on the wrong side of the damaged tunnel leading into Sydney Gardens.
Officially known as the Bath Number 1 tunnel, the Canal and River Trust has issued the following closure update:
“Please be advised that Bath and Northeast Somerset Council are proposing to install a temporary shield around the damaged area of the tunnel to allow the navigation to be opened until a more permanent repair design can be formulated.
They are working on the design now and there will be another update when Canal and River Trust know more.
The navigation and towpath will remain closed until further notice.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation while this matter is being progressed.”
Let me remind you what happened, as outlined in the original notice from the Canal and River Trust.
‘Highway Improvement works have been taking place in the area by contractor Volker Highways working on behalf of Bath and North East Somerset Council.
While excavating in the road bridge surface, stones have been dislodged and damaged under the tunnel arch over the canal making the bridge unsafe to canal users.
For safety reasons and until a Structural Engineer from Bath and North East Somerset Council can make a detailed assessment of the structure the canal navigation and towpath will remain temporarily closed.
Please note: The highway surface of the tunnel remains the responsibility of Bath and North East Somerset Council and not Canal and River Trust.’
