Crinan Canal winter works: Bellanoch Bridge towpath closure

We continue to investigate and address the cause of a sinkhole that has appeared on a section of towpath close to Bellanoch Bridge. Sinkholes can indicate a more extensive deterioration in the structure of an embankment, which means that we do need to understand the root cause and take action to address it. 

Progress so far 

In October 2025, we commissioned a geophysical survey of the embankment. A geophysical survey is a way of producing a 3D visualisation of the internal structure of an area of land using electrical currents. It has allowed us to map the interior of the embankment and has informed the best approach to repairing the structure. 

Upcoming repair work 

From Monday 9th February, Mackenzie Construction Ltd will mobilise to begin dewatering a section of the canal adjacent to the sinkhole. They will then excavate, backfill and rebuild this section of the embankment (approximately 30m in length and 5m wide), covering a more extensive area than historic repairs. They will then reline this section of the canal. 

We have avoided dewatering the entire stretch between locks 13 and 14, preferring a less intrusive approach of using dams and pumps to dewater just the section under repair. 

By conducting the works this winter, we can ensure that the towpath and national cycle route (78) can be re-opened to the public once the works are complete. With the risk of embankment failure addressed, we can avoid emergency closures of the canal and access routes in the future and pre-empt the risk of a future embankment failure. 

Enquiries 

If you have any questions about the works, please get in touch with us at CrinanCanalUpdates@scottishcanals.co.uk or on 01546 603210 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).  Should you need to contact the team urgently out with these hours, please call Scottish Canals’ emergency number, 0800 072 9900 (open 24 hours a day for reporting an immediate threat to the environment, wildlife or public safety.