Coronovirus: Request from BCA to limit use of towpath

Here is an update from the Canal Management team:

Under present conditions we are encouraging people to limit their use of the towpath. The Basingstoke Canal remains open and available for walkers – it’s a form of access land, which like rights of way the Government is not giving us powers to close. With hundreds of entry points it is not practical to close the towpath.

We will be installing additional signage to encourage people to follow Government guidance on staying at home and social distancing. However, this requires people to act responsibly – if it’s too busy please take your exercise elsewhere.

At the weekend, we saw hundreds of people using the towpath, and at that level of use it’s very difficult to keep your distance, especially if you are cycling or running. Unfortunately, if use of the towpath doesn’t reduce, we may have to temporarily withdraw the permission for cycling on the towpath to relieve pressure on this popular area.

You are respectfully requested to:
• Run or cycle elsewhere at this time
• Not stop, picnic or sunbathe
• Give other walkers respect and keep your distance
• Consider walking elsewhere on other local paths