Bridge 81, Potters Brook

Navigation remains open at Bridge 81, Potters Bridge following the installation of concrete barriers on both sides of the bridge to facilitate the road closure. However, due to ongoing safety concerns following a recent bridge strike, additional navigation restrictions will now be introduced while repairs are planned and undertaken.

A navigation closure will be in place at Bridge 81 between 6:00pm and 06:00am daily, commencing on Friday 7 August 2026. The restrictions are expected to remain in place for approximately four weeks, although the duration will be reviewed once repair works commence on site, which is currently anticipated towards the end of next week.

During the overnight stoppage period, no boats will be permitted to pass beneath the bridge. Between 06:00am and 6:00pm, navigation through the bridge will remain open. However, all boaters must make themselves known to the site operative, who will be stationed on top of the bridge. The operative will temporarily stop traffic crossing the bridge to allow vessels to pass safely underneath.

The towpath remains closed due to loose masonry. A signed diversion route remains in place for towpath users and will remain in effect until the necessary repairs have been completed.

We will provide a further update on or before Friday 14 August.

Navigation has now reopened following the installation of concrete barriers on both sides of the bridge to facilitate the road closure. However, the towpath remains closed due to loose masonry.

A signed diversion route is in place for towpath users. The towpath will remain closed until the necessary repair works have been completed.

We will provide a further update on, or before, Monday 10 August.

Navigation and towpath remains closed at Bridge 81 Potters Brooke on the Lancaster Canal due to a vehicle strike which has caused severe damage. 

Our Engineers have inspected the site and a road closure was implemented on Thursday 30 July. Barriers have been installed to close the towpath, with additional secure fencing due to be installed on Tuesday 4 August. Concrete barriers are scheduled to be installed on both sides of the bridge on Sunday 2 August.

Navigation will reopen once these barriers have been installed and it is safe to do so.

An update will be provided on or before Monday 3 August.

Navigation and towpath is currently closed at Bridge 81 Potters Brooke on the Lancaster Canal due to a vehicle strike which has caused severe damage. 

Our engineers have been informed and are on their way to site to carry out inspections and a plan for repair. 

In the meantime, boats can turn around at the winding holes at Bridge 80 (South) or Bridge 84 (North)

An update will be provided on or before Friday 31 July.