CONSERVATORS OF THE RIVER CAM
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Latest Information Updates
CONSERVATOR OF THE RIVER CAM OPEN DAY 24 JUNE 2025 - CANCELLED
Statement from the Chair on behalf of the Conservators
The Conservators have taken the decision to postpone the scheduled open day on 24 June 2025.
This is to allow the Conservators to concentrate on the stabilisation project at Baits Bite Lock, which has suffered many delays in the design phase, and to get the navigation reopened as soon as is possible.
We share the frustration over these delays, and the postponement of the open day. We will, over the coming weeks, be sharing much more information on the web site, both on the stabilisation project as work finally gets underway, and also more background information about the Conservancy, and the very real existential challenges we face.
Temporary Closure of Baits Bite Lock and Jesus Lock
Follow link to the Lock Islands 2024 page for further information and FAQ's
Statement on weed cutting, towpath, and trees
12 June 2025.
Weed-cutting
Upstream of Baits Bite Lock
After an initial full cut in May, our weed harvester Berky is currently out of service due to a mechanical failure of the hydraulic system among other issues. The cost of bringing Berky back into service is considerable, and we are looking at all the options to fund this, or to find an alternative approach to weed cutting. The next cut will take place as soon as possible.
Downstream of Baits Bite Lock
Weed cutting is being carried out by a small weed cutting vessel which lacks the ability to harvest on the same run, slowing the process down.
Towpath
The Conservancy owns the towpath but has a Permissive Path Agreement with Cambridgeshire County Council that makes them responsible for provision and maintenance of the actual path, and the surrounding shrub and grass maintenance.
To report an issue with the towpath, please go directly to Cambridgeshire County Council
The Conservancy receives no funding to maintain the land but will ensure that those using the navigation will not be disadvantaged by the condition of the bank.
Trees
Members of the public experiencing an issue with low hanging branches or fallen branches while using the towpath should contact the Conservancy at info@camconservancy.org and we will arrange for an investigation and removal if necessary.
Navigation
The Conservancy is currently focusing its resource on stabilising Baits Bite lock and reopening the navigation.
Clayhithe 48 hour visitor mooring - partial closure
Update: 21/05/2024
A gap has been identified between the bank and concrete caping along the revetments at the 48 hour mooring . The visitor mooring is therefore partially closed at the upstream end, to ensure public safety.
Inland Waterways Association - News
Fund Britain's Waterways
Petition · Fund Britain's Waterways - United Kingdom - Change.org
Help us urge the Prime Minister not to stand by but to ensure the government takes action today to help safeguard Britain’s canals and rivers now and for future generations. We, the undersigned, ask that the Prime Minister acknowledges the many social, economic and environmental benefits that Britain’s inland waterways provide and gives assurance that the government will intervene, where ...
The ‘IWA’s ’ concerns for The Conservancy’s lack of funding - 04/11/2024
The IWA has expressed concern for The Conservancy’s financial situation, whilst campaigning for adequate broader funding for Britain’s navigable rivers and canals. Please follow the link to read the whole article.
Further information on broader IWA campaigning is available here.