News and events in Bristol Harbour

News stories and events happening at Bristol Harbour and the surrounding area.

Avian Botulism update: October 2026

two boats on the harbour water

Following no reported cases for over 10 days, previous advice and restrictions have now been relaxed.

The 10 day period without any reported cases is a positive indication that the immediate risk has reduced.

While the situation has improved, we will continue to monitor conditions closely and remain vigilant for any further cases.

We would like to thank everyone who followed the advice and reported concerns during this period.

Netham Lock: Opening Hours 2026 to 2027

a brick cottage by a canal

Netham Lock has moved to winter operating hours: Thursday 1 October 2026 until Sunday 28 March 2027.

Staff will be available between 8.30am to 8.30pm.

From Monday 26 October to Sunday 28 March 2027, staff will be available between 9.30am and 3.45pm.

If you want to pass through Netham Lock you should contact the Harbour Office on 0117 903 1484, option 1. You should give one hours notice.

Update on Pero's Bridge repairs: 6 October 2026

a bridge over the water with two grey horns on the side, waterfront bars in the background

In the coming weeks, the bridge's three spans will be lifted from their position and transported by barge to Albion Dry Dock.

There, they will be repaired and refurbished before returning to the harbour in spring 2027.

This follows the emergency closure of the bridge after an issue occurred during a routine test lift in August.

The removal of the bridge spans will allow the repair works and planned refurbishment programme to be completed at the same time.

Once the spans have been removed, boats will be able to pass through St. Augustine's Reach and ferry services will be able to return to Cascade Steps.

The temporary hoardings around the bridge will be updated with diversion route information and directional signage.

We'll continue to share updates as more information becomes available:

on this page
on the Bristol Harbour Instagram account @bristol_harbour
through Bristol City Council's social media channels
on our dedicated harbour improvements page

Bristol Harbour users survey results

Pink and purple flowers up close with the harbour in the background, little bee on one of the flowers

Thank you to everyone who took part in the Bristol Harbour users survey.

The survey received 30 completed responses from June 2025 to July 2026 and has given us valuable feedback on a range of harbour facilities and services.

pdf Summary of the survey findings and full results(135 KB)

We're currently reviewing the survey to make sure it's easy to complete and asks the questions that matter most to harbour users. We'll share an update once this work is complete.

We welcome feedback throughout the year. If you have not yet completed the Bristol Harbour users survey and would like to share your views, you can still do so. Your feedback helps us understand what is working well and where improvements can be made.

If you would like further information about the survey results, email harbour.office@bristol.gov.uk.

New floating ecospaces in place on Bristol Harbour

Some grass and earth floating on the water of the harbour. The backs of three people stood on the grass in also in the shot butonlyup to their shoulders

On Thursday 16 July 2026, two brand new floating wetlands were installed alongside the SS Great Britain and Cascade steps.

These floating ecosystems will provide vital homes for local wildlife, act as a nursery for young birds, and help improve water quality using the superpowers of wetland plants.

This project has been an incredible group effort, showing that nature solutions really are possible in large cities.

Funded by WWT, the wetland charity, in partnership with Planet Wild, and Bristol BID.
Built by Young people at Underfall Yard as part of Young Bristol's work placement programme and funded through the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority's Youth Guarantee Trailblazer programme.
Supported by Bristol City Council, WECA, Biomatrix Water, Avon Wildlife Trust and Star Yachts.

Checks and repairs on Bristol Harbour structures

A river with a bridge at the end that's been taken apart. A bridge going over the river with a lorry on it.

Important survey and refurbishment work is taking place across parts of the harbour to help keep it safe, working properly and fit for the future:

At the Bristol Entrance Lock, specialist diving teams will carry out underwater surveys of the lock gates and nearby sluices. Much of this structure sits below the waterline, so problems are not always visible from the surface. The team will check for wear or damage to help engineers understand what maintenance or repairs may be needed.
At the Underfall Sluices, plans are underway for refurbishment works. The sluices play an important role in controlling water levels in the Floating Harbour. A specialist contractor has been appointed, and designs are being reviewed to make sure the upgraded system will operate safely and reliably.

Bristol City Council, Bristol Harbour Authority and engineering specialists KGAL are working together on both projects. The work will help us understand what needs fixing, reduce risks, and plan future maintenance to keep these historic harbour structures in good working order.

At this stage, we do not expect this work to disrupt boaters. We'll share any updates or new information on our local notices to mariners page.

Events

Tuesday 3 November and 1 December 2026: Historical walk, Floating harbour

Join expert guides for a tour of Bristol Harbour, exploring its industrial and maritime heritage and modern regeneration.

M Shed starting point, 10.30am to 1pm.

Sunday 25 October 2026: Explore Underfall Yard

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the harbour and its fascinating story at Underfall Yard.

Underfall Yard Visitor centre, Sunday 25 October, 11am to 12.30pm.

Saturday 17 October 2026: Bristol Canoe Club Sprint Regatta

Information to follow.