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River guidance 
TO ENSURE ALL RIVER USERS HAVE A PLEASANT EXPERIENCE ON THE RIVER CAM THE CONSERVANCY ASKS THAT YOU FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES BELOW: 
 

  • If you collide with another vessel – STOP, TALK TO EACH OTHER AND EXCHANGE DETAILS

  • Communicate peacefully, don’t be abusive.

  • Take your rubbish home, no fly tipping or leaving fishing line and hooks.

  • keep noise levels to a minimum – Consider your neighbours and river users at all times.

  • Use the towpath lawfully and with consideration for all users.

  • Do not pollute the river. Report any pollution to EA hotline 0800 80 70 60.

  • Report all river obstructions to the Conservancy website or call 01223 863785

  • Respect the wildlife. Do not interfere or disturb the wildlife or any protected species.

  • DON’T drink alcohol or drugs whilst operating a vessel.

    We have 2 speed limits for power driven vessels:

  • 11kph between Bottisham and Baits Bite Lock

  • 8kph between Baits Bite Lock and the Mill Pool

21/05/2024 LOCK CLOSURE INFORMATION

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Due to safety concerns regarding the structural integrity of the lock islands at Baits Bite and Jesus Green, the decision has been taken to temporarily close the locks until further notice. More detailed structural investigations will be undertaken and a plan for remedial works developed urgently. The Conservators are engaging with the Environment Agency and Local Authorities to seek a coordinated approach.

 

Further information: The Conservators of the River Cam are responsible for the navigation (the river) from Mill Pool in Cambridge to Bottisham Lock (Waterbeach) and the locks in between, namely Jesus Green Lock (JGL) in Cambridge and Bait’s Bite Lock (BBL). ​Each lock has an island between the lock chamber and the sluice and weir structures, which it supports. At both Jesus Lock and Baits Bite Lock, the Conservators own the lock and lock island, while the Environment Agency (EA) own and operate the sluice and weir. In addition, the lock islands support footbridges and public right of way in these locations, which are managed by the relevant Local Authorities.​

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Following observations of cracks in both lock islands, early in 2024 the Conservators of the River Cam commissioned structural surveys.​ The consequent reports identify significant structural fragility in the lock islands and a need for reinforcement work in the short to medium term.​ The Conservators have collectively reviewed the reports and are urgently drawing up a detailed risk assessment, commissioning more detailed surveys, and developing a project plan for remedial works.

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