Thames River: Imposed Restrictions and Shutdowns

The River Thames, a vital waterway in the UK, has seen a series of disruptions and obstacles in recent months. From lock closures to submerged boats and shoals, boaters and navigators are advised to exercise caution and stay updated on the latest information.

As of now, the shoal downstream of The Plough public house at Clifton weir stream has been reported and boaters are asked to navigate with caution. Similarly, a submerged boat has been spotted just upstream of St Mary's Island, and a vehicle crash has formed a navigation hazard approximately 30 to 50 metres downstream of Ferryman Pub at Bablock Hythe.

Lock closures have also been reported. Teddington Launch Lock is currently closed for repairs to lock walls, gate ram trench, and areas of the lock side. The Teddington Barge Lock is also closed with specific operational hours mentioned, and the Marlow Lock upstream canoe portage is closed for repairs until further notice. Caversham Lock public power is currently unavailable, and the lock can be used by handwinding if a lock keeper is unavailable.

The Environment Agency, the organization responsible for the annual scheduling of work on the Thames, has also announced several closures and navigational changes. The navigation channel will be on the Middlesex side of the river during The Skiff Club Regatta 2025, on the Fawley Court side during The Skiff Championship Regatta 2025, and on the Wallingford side during Wallingford Long Distance Sculls 2025. Navigation will also be closed to allow for the removal of the central span of the footbridge at Temple reach, and the central arch of Temple Bridge will be closed for navigation due to safety works.

Boaters are also advised to keep a look out between Whitchurch and Mapledurham Locks during Pangbourne Hasler 2025, and navigation will be closed to allow for the Kingston Railway Bridge Inspection 2025. A temporary footbridge will also be installed across the river for the duration of Reading Festival.

Due to prolonged dry weather, river levels have dropped considerably along the entire River Thames, increasing the possibility of shoals appearing in all reaches. A sunken narrowboat is causing an obstruction 50 metres upstream of Sheepwash junction route to Isis Lock on the Oxford Canal.

Regular updates and information about Thames lock closures and maintenance can be obtained by following the Environment Agency's official website or subscribing to their notification services. The Floodline and Environment incident hotline are also 24-hour services that can be reached at 0345 988 1188 and 0800 80 70 60, respectively. For email correspondence, you can send an email to [email protected] website.

Boaters are encouraged to stay vigilant and always check for the latest updates before setting sail on the River Thames.