Express & Star

Stourbridge Canal works: Out with the old and in with the new as locks replaced

Old locks were removed and new lock gates were lowered into place by cranes along the Stourbridge Canal as part of a £120,000 works.

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Eight lock gates are being changed on the stretch by the Canal & River Trust.

Brickwork is also being inspected and repaired at other locks.

The canal was completed in 1779 and brought coal and other supplies to the world famous glass industry.

On Tuesday, a key stage in the work took place at lock three, as the old lock gates at the bottom, and single gate at the top, weighing in at just over five tons altogether, were lifted out for replacement.

The three new gates, made at the charity's workshop in Bradley and costing a total of £23,000, ended their journey to the lock by boat, and were lifted into place by crane.

The lock chamber was then drained and the team set about fixing any damaged bricks and stones.

The renovations are running for four weeks, from February 20 to March 17.

The public will also have the rare opportunity to walk down into lock three on Sunday, March 12 from 10am.

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