Divers repair Gloucester Lock gate to help save water at Gloucester Docks

Protecting the lock

The lock, which connects the River Severn to the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal, had developed leaks in its top gates through gradual wear and tear. we have carried out repairs to help retain water in the docks when the lock is emptied, with the work taking on added importance during the current drought.

With ongoing drought conditions placing pressure on water resources, we’re working to maximise water levels in the canal. Water is pumped into the canal from the River Severn at Gloucester Docks and supports shipping at Sharpness Docks, as well as water supplies serving the population of Bristol.

Specialist divers inspected the lock gates below the waterline and identified areas where water was escaping. Using marine-grade plywood, they repaired leaks in sections of the eight-tonne gates, helping to reduce water loss from the docks and protect supplies for the 16-mile canal and its users.

The work is the latest improvement at Gloucester Lock. Additional investment is planned this winter as part of the Trust’s national winter works programme. The Trust will also begin the next phase of its £4.5 million dredging project at Gloucester Docks in October.

Conserving water in the canal

Georgina Wood, our regional operations manager for Wales & South West, said: “With the pressures created by current drought conditions, it’s important that we do everything we can to conserve water in the canal. These repairs will help reduce water loss through the top gates at Gloucester Lock and keep more water in the docks.

“Using divers allowed us to complete the work quickly, resulting in only a short stoppage for boaters navigating in and out of the docks.

“Gloucester Lock is 214 years old and continues to operate much as it did when it was first built. By reducing leakage through the gates, we’re helping to protect vital water resources, which is particularly important given the challenges posed by the current drought.”