The Ocean, the Railway and the Towpath

The canal towpath between Ocean swing bridge and Bonds Mill will be closed from 18 October until the end of March 2022 as part of the work to replace the railway bridge.
An alternative walking and cycling route has been arranged through St Cyr’s Churchyard and will be signposted – please be mindful of church services that may be taking place.
The current bridge with its narrow opening will be replaced with a new, wider bridge that will allow boats to pass under, and an integrated canal side footpath. It is the largest engineering project in the Cotswold Canals Connected programme and is a vital part of the plan to connect the restored canal to the national waterways network, eventually making Stonehouse and Stroud canal towns once again.

This project was planned for May of last year, but was delayed primarily by difficult ground conditions. Preparatory work started in October and the new bridge will be installed between the 24th and 30th of December 2021, with work on-going around the clock.

You will not be able to view the works directly, but regular photos and drone footage are to be posted on the Cotswold Canals Connected website and social media so that anyone who is interested can watch what is taking place.

Find out more about Cotswold Canals Connected at www.cotswoldcanalsconnected.org and their social media pages.