Waterways Ireland wishes to advise Masters of Vessels that the 18th Level of the Grand Canal is now open to navigation at Healy’s (Bonynge) Bridge, following the completion of remedial works required due to a previous vehicle strike.
Building on this progress, Waterways Ireland will commence essential engineering works on the land tunnels at Lock 18. To facilitate these works, water levels on the 18th Level (Robertstown) must be temporarily reduced by approximately 500 mm.
The water level reduction will apply between the existing culvert works east of Lock 19 (Lowtown) and Lock 18. The duration of these works is scheduled from 18 March 2026 to 3 April 2026.
This reduction will prohibit navigation and may pose a risk to vessel integrity for craft remaining within the affected section. Accordingly, Masters of Vessels currently moored on the 18th Level are requested to relocate their vessels east of Lock 18 by 18 March 2026.
Vessels may return to the Robertstown area upon the anticipated completion of works after 3 April 2026.
Any vessels remaining on the 18th Level from 18 March 2026 may be relocated by Waterways Ireland staff. Such action will be taken under the powers vested in:
S.I. No. 247/1988 – Canals Act, 1986 (Bye-Laws), 1988: Section 31 (Removal of boats etc. from canal property).
Concurrently, efforts will be made to communicate directly with owners of those vessels currently berthed on the 18th Level.
Waterways Ireland appreciates the cooperation of the boating community in facilitating these essential maintenance works to safeguard the long-term integrity of the canal infrastructure.
Peter Harty
Inspector of Navigation
Inspectorate.Athlone@waterwaysireland.org