Caledonian Canal could be closed to navigation until end of April
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Caledonian Canal breach at Cullochy Weir
Unusually high water levels on Loch Oich, as a result of heavy rains and snow melt, have significantly undermined the weir at Cullochy (approximately six miles south of Fort Augustus on the Caledonian Canal) and partially washed it away, causing a major breach of the canal embankment.
Scottish Canals have assessed the situation. While the imperative is to stem the flow of water at the weir, this is no easy job! Therefore, as an immediate measure, they have decided to stem the flow near to Aberchalder Bridge as this will enable them to carry out repairs on the weir effectively.
This is a significant and unforeseen breach of the canal which requires a major civil engineering response. This will mean that the Caledonian Canal at this location, and for sea to sea transits, could be closed until the end of April, however Scottish Canals will do all that they can to carry out the work as quickly as possible in order to minimise the impact on customers.
Keep up-to-date on progress at: www.scottishcanals.co.uk