The team started this month on replacing gates at Locks 30 and 31 Brickyard Double Lock near Shireoaks. Once that work is finished in early November, they will move on to Lock 29 Milestone Lock to replace gates there, and will also support the Environment Agency as it carries out pressure tests on Lock 65 West Stockwith Lock and Flood Gate. In January 2019, the final phase of the works will be at Locks 26 to 28 Thorpe Locks, where several gates will be replaced.
Busy throughout winter
Stuart Gadsby, regional construction manager at Canal & River Trust, said: “At around one tonne per gate, this is a complex task that will keep our team busy throughout winter.
“The new gates will ensure these locks remain operational for years to come, allowing boaters to enjoy smooth sailing along the Chesterfield Canal. Major tasks like these, and the continuing efforts of local volunteers, improve the whole canal environment, so people can enjoy their walks, runs and rides along the towpath too, and wildlife can continue to thrive.”
Lock gates last around 25 years and each new one is handmade to the exact measurements of the old one at one of our own workshops.
Some towpath closures may be required during the works. Signage on site will indicate when and where these will happen and show diversion routes.
