14 of 2026 - Navigation Restrictions During Drought Conditions

Due to the area moving into drought status, we will be further restricting the use at some of our sites and asking navigation users to take additional measures to conserve water.

This will enable navigation to continue for essential journeys while protecting strategic water abstractions.  These restrictions will come into effect as below and last until further notice.

Effective 17^th August

Allington Lock Operations 

• Allington Lock will operate at high water only.
• Passages will be restricted to daytime high tides.
• Canoes will not be permitted to pass through to the tidal Medway.

Tonbridge Town Lock

• This lock will be closed until conditions improve.

Canoe Passage

• Canoe passes remain closed during low flows to prevent grounding.
• Low water levels may cause increased freeboard at portages – users are reminded to take additional care when using these.

Effective 29^th August

East Farleigh, Teston, and Hampstead Locks

• There will be no self service lock usage at these sites until conditions improve. Customers MUST make an appointment by contacting the duty lock keeper on 01622 752 864.  Appointments can be made at the following times:
  • East Farleigh will be available for assisted passage once per day at 11am.
  • Teston will be available for assisted passage once per day at 12 noon.
  • Hampstead will be available for assisted passage once per day at 1pm.
• There will be no permitted passage for return journeys.
• customers are requested to share lock appointments or otherwise stay in their pen unless the journey is essential. 

General Water Conservation Measures 

Elsewhere, all navigation users are requested to: 

• Share lock passages with other vessels wherever possible. 
• Minimise lock usage where journeys can be planned efficiently. 
• Ensure all lock gates and paddles are fully closed after use. 
• Follow any instructions issued by navigation staff. 
• Continue to observe navigation speed limits.
• Report any navigation hazards such as grounding risks, fallen trees or unusually shallow areas to the navigation team.