Lancaster Canal has reopened after almost eight months of being closed.

Part of the embankment and towpath collapsed to the north of the Moons Bridge Marina near Woodplumpton and temporary dams were put in place following the incident on the weekend of 20-21 July last year.

Major work has since taken place to get the canal reopened, with the waterway reopening on 17 February.

Read more: No quick fix available for Preston underpass blighted by flooding

The Canal and River Trust issued a statement saying: “We’re pleased to share some fantastic progress over the past few weeks. We have successfully completed canal bed repairs, allowing us to begin testing and refilling the drained section.

“The temporary access ramp, stone used for canal access, and 100 tonnes of waste material, along with the two temporary porta dams, have now been removed from the site.

“This coming week marks the final phase of work before we reopen navigation. Specialist contractors will arrive on Monday to begin sheet piling repairs.

“Alongside this, we will complete further stitch drilling within the central and south barrels of the aqueduct walls to ensure stability, followed by injection grouting to strengthen the structure.

“Thanks to the significant progress made, we’re delighted to announce that the canal will reopen for navigation.

“While we’re pleased to reopen navigation, contractors will still be working from a workboat to install additional piling on either side of the canal for a few weeks after reopening. We kindly ask all boaters to pass through the area with extra care and follow any instructions from the team on site.

“The towpath and public right of way will remain closed until the end of March 2025 to allow for ongoing land reinstatement works.”

Subscribe: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines