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Canal Crisis: Business Owner Fears "Big Issue" if Easter Reopening Fails
4 Nov
Summary
- A canal breach caused a significant 40% loss of trade for a local business.
- The canal is expected to reopen in March, just before the Easter holiday.
- Local community support has been crucial in mitigating financial losses.
A local business owner expressed relief that the Llangollen Canal is expected to reopen in March 2027, following a significant breach that led to approximately 40% of their trade being lost. The canal section in Whitchurch has been closed since December 22, 2025, after a major embankment failure resulted in two boats sinking and another perilously positioned. Jane Beaumont, owner of the Lockside Cafe, stated that the drop in earnings was directly due to the lack of passing boats and visitors on the canal path.
The Canal & River Trust has announced that the canal is anticipated to reopen ahead of Easter 2027, which is crucial for the main boating and tourism season. While the exact opening depends on weather conditions, this timeline provides hope for businesses. Beaumont emphasized that a delay past Easter would be a "big issue," as this period typically marks the start of their spring and summer trade. She highlighted the "massive support" from the local community, which has been instrumental in helping her family business, which she has run for 24 years, survive the downturn.
The trust had previously hoped for a late 2026 reopening, but the embankment rebuild is scheduled for completion before Christmas 2026, with a concrete base to follow. Subsequent work will continue after the holiday period. Campbell Robb, chief executive of the trust, expressed confidence in the canal being open from Easter 2027, aiming to make the Llangollen Canal "stronger and more resilient for the future."
