PENKRIDGE LOCK 38 on the Staffs & Worcs Canal will be closed until 1st May.
This is due to the required permits, Keith Gudgin reports.
Obstruction
The lock was closed at the end of December as it had an obstruction and was unable to be operated.
But work has been limited due to the requirement for permits from the local council to allow excavation through the road to access the identified blockage.
The trust has now received the necessary permits, and excavation works commenced yesterday, 16th February.
The trust tells it is aiming to reach the blockage by the end of this week. However, due to the numerous services located within the bridge deck, excavation must be undertaken with extreme caution to ensure safe working throughout.
Removed by hand
Once access has been gained, the blockage will be broken out and removed by hand.
This will then allow water jet cutting to begin, that is a new method for the trust, but considered the most efficient way to re-establish a route for the culvert through the debris and foam concrete.
Subject to the success of the water jet cutting process, the current estimated completion date for the works is 1st May 2026.