Emergency services declared a major incident in Shropshire in the early hours of Monday morning after a significant breach occurred along a historic canal, leading to the rescue of more than ten people.
Early Morning Canal Breach Sparks Rescue Operation
The crisis unfolded on the Llangollen Canal near the New Mills Lift Bridge, close to the Chemistry area of Whitchurch. The first reports came in at 4.22am on Monday 22 December 2025, detailing a large hole that had opened up along the waterway. This caused substantial volumes of water to escape onto the surrounding land.
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that three canal boats were caught in what they described as a developing sinkhole, measuring approximately 50 metres by 50 metres. Fire crews swiftly assisted more than 10 people to safety from the affected vessels and the immediate vicinity.
Multi-Agency Response and Welfare for Residents
Scott Hurford, Area Manager for Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, provided a detailed update. "We can confirm no persons are believed to be on board the affected canal boats, and no injuries have been reported," he stated. The fire service, alongside other agencies, worked to support approximately 12 residents from nearby moored boats, relocating them to a welfare centre established at the former Whitchurch police station.
The formal major incident was declared at 5.17am. By 8.30am, officials reported the situation had stabilised, with water flow reduced and no ongoing search-and-rescue activity. However, a substantial multi-agency presence remains in place to manage the environmental impact, protect nearby properties, and ensure continued public safety.
Canal Section Dammed Off as Investigation Launches
In response to the breach, teams from the Canal & River Trust have dammed off the impacted section of the waterway. A spokesperson for the Trust said, "We are carrying out initial investigations into the possible cause of the breach and will provide more details in due course."
The Trust also outlined its immediate priorities, which include working to return water levels either side of the breach as soon as possible and providing ongoing support to the boaters affected and those living in the immediate area. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the location while the significant operational response continues.
West Mercia Police reiterated that there were no reports of any casualties. The collaborative effort now focuses on understanding the cause of the sinkhole and mitigating the wider consequences of the canal breach.
