THERE IS PRESSURE FROM the Inland Waterways Association to reopen the the Anderton Boat Lift.
Closed for over 19 months
That has been closed now for over 19 months with nothing done to overcome its problems.
With the association celebrating its 80th year with a cruise on the Weaver, it brought home the lack of boat movement on the Weaver with the closing of the lift.
This resulted in a renewed call to put pressure on Canal & River Trust, with Jim Forkin, chair of IWA's Chester and Merseyside branch, explaining:
Unacceptable
"The Anderton Boat Lift is one of the 'Seven Wonders of the Waterways' and its long closure plus at least another 12 months into 2027 is unacceptable.
"This situation needs addressing with more pressure put on C&RT to get the boat lift working again as soon as possible.
"The lack of boats on the Weaver is very disappointing; it is a beautiful river with many attractions and historic assets.
"To bring boats back to the river would give a much-needed financial boost to many businesses and pleasure to boaters along its course."
Though there has been support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the trust has not yet provided a confirmed timetable for reopening the lift, or even starting the work required.