The Trustees of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust have had to temporarily suspend public access to its world famous Crofton Pumping station, the oldest beam-engine, steam-driven pumping station still able to perform the task it was originally designed for (i.e. pump water from the prime water source for the canal, Wilton Water, up to the canal’s summit). This action has resulted from a failure in the domestic supply which provides water for the visitors and staff, the cafe, toilets, and tor the occupants of the 2 cottages. It also provides British waterways with water for use by passing boaters. The water source is a deep level borehole, located on the upper reaches of the Crofton property, which is then locally purified. Routine tests on the water this week have revealed that the water is contaminated and following discussions with Wiltshire Council, the Trustees felt that it was only right to take this preventative action whilst further tests were undertaken and the source of the deep-level problem investigated and appropriate action taken.
The Canal Trust apologises to the many thousands of visitors who will be disappointed but can assure all that everything is being done to restore normal service as soon a possible.
Enquiries should be addressed to: The Warden, +44 (0)1672 870300
