Napton Lock works open to the public

Published: Friday, 23 November 2018

THE Canal & River Trust is at present repairing Napton Lock 9 and taking the opportunity to open the locks to the public.

This will give people an insight of how the locks work by allowing them into the chamber this coming Sunday on a special Open Day.

Walls leaning inwards

Over the years the lock walls have started to lean inwards making the lock narrower, causing problems to some boats, so the wall has to be taken down and rebuilt to its original specifications.

Visitors will be able to take a tour of the works and see some of the historic fabric of the canal which is normally hidden from view. There will also be an opportunity to speak to some of the Trust’s team of workers and experts.

Good example

Charles Baker, Senior Project Manager for the Canal & River Trust, explained:

“These works are a really good example of the work we do to keep the region’s waterways open and safe for everyone to enjoy. It requires a huge amount of planning and investment as well as a wide range of craftsmanship and expertise but it’s important as our waterways have such a crucial role to play in daily life."

The free Open Day will take place at Napton Lock 9 on the Oxford Canal between 10.30am and 3pm on Sunday 25 November. Parking is available at Folly Inn pub (CV47 8NZ).