Mutford Lock, which enables thousands of boats to pass between the
Broads and the North Sea each year, is operating again after the
replacement of control systems which were irreparably damaged by the
December floods.
The Broads Authority has overseen £80,000 worth of repairs to the
Victorian lock which have been funded from emergency flood funds
allocated to the National Parks by Defra.
A new hydraulic and electrical system which will be less vulnerable to
future flooding has been specially designed and installed by local
contractor LEC Marine (Klyne) Ltd, to suit the layout and appearance of
the lock.
The tidal surge damaged the hydraulic control and lock gate winding
mechanisms and increased the build-up of sediment and debris behind the
gates.
While components were being manufactured divers and mechanical
contractors were brought in to clear the lock gates, cills and sluices
of debris, remove and replace a cable duct and repair winding
mechanisms.
Tom Hunter, Broads Authority engineer, said: “The time taken to
fabricate and install a well-designed system to withstand future
flooding was essential to provide good long term value and minimise
future costs and down time.
“The old system has been troublesome for several years. Some of the parts were obsolete and not designed for easy maintenance.
“The maintenance of this important structure is expensive and we were
extremely pleased that the bid to Defra for funding this damage by the
flood was successful and met the full cost of the repair.”
John Packman, Chief Executive of the Broads Authority, said: “I am
delighted that this important gateway to the Broads is fully operational
again for the thousands of boats which go through it every year.
“The repair and upkeep of the lock is not only good news for boat users
but is also a boost for the local businesses which benefit from their
passage.
“The Broads Authority appreciates the patience of boaters awaiting the
repairs and I particularly want to thank the staff at Oulton Broad Yacht
Station and Holman Marine who have operated the lock manually while the
system has been out of action.”
When allocating the money from the flood fund Environment Minister Lord
de Mauley said: “The Broads are the jewel in the crown of our precious
natural environment – this investment will ensure they remain so. Given
each pound spent by National Parks on recreation provides £4 of wider
benefit, it is essential to get our Parks back to the highest standards
ahead of the busy tourism period.”
Boaters wishing to use the lock should book in advance with Oulton Broad Yacht Station on 01502 574946 or VHF channel 73.
