Waterway authorities have announced additional navigation constraints on the River Thames as a drought continues to grip the region.

Large sections of southern England, including Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley, were formally classified as being in drought status from Wednesday, July 29, following an extended spell of high temperatures and minimal rainfall.

The Environment Agency first imposed navigation limitations between St John’s Lock in Gloucestershire and Osney Lock in Oxford starting Saturday, July 25.

On Monday, August 3, these limitations were broadened to encompass the river sections spanning Goring Lock to Culham Lock alongside the stretch from Penton Hook Lock to Shepperton Lock.

Vessel passage through the locks will be limited to a single upward and one downward transit every half hour, while overnight lock shutdowns will operate between 6pm and 9.30am.

An official communication from the Environment Agency explained that these measures were necessary to preserve water reserves within the river system, maintain navigation depths and enable water extraction for household supply purposes.

The statement noted that while limitations are either in effect or being brought in at those specified lock locations, conditions would continue to be observed throughout the Thames region.

Should the current drought conditions and reduced river flow persist, comparable water-saving measures could potentially be rolled out to additional areas of the river, particularly sections that facilitate public water supply extraction.

Any subsequent restrictions would be determined by circumstances specific to individual locations and operational needs.

Updates regarding alterations would be shared with personnel, interested parties and those using the river as promptly as possible.