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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has carried out an underwater survey at Victoria Lock on the Omeath Road outside Newry, to see the cause of a water leekage at the local tourist attraction.
The leekage is contributing to water loss from the historic Newry Ship Canal. Last year leekage at the lock and canal banks coupled with a prolongued dry spell meant levels on the canal fell by several metres meaning that for a time last August at the height of the summer larger ships couldn't access or leave the facility.
There have been several work projects carried out in recent years. Back in 2007 the lock gates were automated although notice needs to be given for any boats arriving or departing Newry as they still have to be operated by council staff. A £500,000 refurbishment scheme at the lock gates was completed in 2016. It involved dredging of Victoria Lock Chamber and Removal and repairs to the Sea Gates.
This latest survey was carried out during May 2023 and the Council is awaiting the engineer’s report in the coming weeks to see what if any work is necessary.
