No overnight lock closures will be in force during this year’s main boating season while work is carried out on Chasewater Reservoir, it has been announced.

There had been fears the overnight closures in force during the 2010 season would be repeated this year, disrupting boaters during the peak months.

At least two major canal festivals were cancelled last year because of the £2.5 million restoration of the Chasewater Dam.

But bosses at British Waterways confirmed no overnight closures would be in place this year — unless they are forced to introduce them because of vandal attacks.

They say vandalism is now one of the main threats to water levels, with vandals targeting locks and sections being drained.

Last year, overnight lock closures had to be brought in as part of a package of measures to help manage water resources on the Birmingham Canal Navigations while the reservoir,— one of the main water supplies for 198 miles of canals, was drained for essential repairs.

Dean Davies, waterways manager, said: “Last year was a challenging year and we reluctantly took the decision to close lock flights overnight as a precautionary measure.

“However, thanks to the action we took last year, and the co-operation we received from the boating community, we are now in a much stronger position and, barring any major incidents or vandalism, should be able to avoid closing any locks.”

He added: “The situation is still very delicate and we’ll be monitoring things closely.

“Wherever possible we would still encourage boaters to follow the broad principle of keeping their evening boat movements to a minimum and by doing so, make a significant contribution to keeping the locks open.”

Last year, the annual Birmingham Canal Navigations Society’s marathon cruise, which had been due to take place in May, was cancelled because of the repair work.

Pelsall Canal Festival was also a victim of the repair work. But preparations for this year’s events are now forging ahead. British Waterways is urging organisers of events to seek permission as soon as possible.