DUDBRIDGE LOCK (Stroudwater Navigation) - fully operational December 2013

10th December 2013. Lock gates are craned into Dudbridge Lock (Dudbridge lower lock).
With impending winter storms, the bricklaying team set to work to complete the extensive repairs to the lock chamber, and Cotswold Canals Trust volunteers fit the new paddle gear.
The skilled team from "Hargreaves Lock Gates" of Sowerby Bridge, continue with the installation of new timber cills for the gates.
Main contractors "Land and Water" fit safety ladders to the chamber, and begin to transform the towpath.
The scaffolding is then removed and the lock invert cleared of residual loose debris.
With stop planks removed, the lock is fully operational.
On 23rd December 2013, in driving wind and rain, the maintenance boat "Wookey Hole" makes the historic passage of the lock as a trial to test navigation depth and operation of lock equipment.
The lock will remain closed to public use until the remainder of the Lock Furniture has been installed, including safety bollards for ropes and brick paved quadrants for safe use of the balance beams.

An official opening of Dudbridge Lock and Foundry Lock is expected during the spring of 2014.

This work forms part of Phase 1A of the restoration of the Cotswold Canals supported by significant funding from The Heritage Lottery Fund.


Filmed by Bob Paget