Large dip causes lock closure

A LARGE depression was discovered beside Eshton Road Lock on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal at Gargrave in late September.

Canal & River Trust engineers believe water got in behind the lock wall and caused it to bulge inwards, creating a dip in the towpath side quadrant.

Initially the lock was closed from September 28 and then reopened for three days until October 2 to allow boats to get through before it was closed for repairs.

CRT staff were on hand during the day to help boats through the lock and monitor it for further deterioration.

There was a further opportunity for assisted passage on October 11 after which dams were installed to allow the team to drain the lock and assess the full extent of the damage.

It is expected that the lock will be closed for several months for repairs, with the estimate for the reopening at Easter 2022 subject to updates.

PHOTOS: COLIN WAREING, COLIN AND CAROLE'S CREATIONS Seasonal lock keepers Erin and Rob, who had only started work for the trust the previous week, on hand to help boaters through the lock.

The dip in the towpath and lock wall can be seen.