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Plans are underway to rectify difficulties in operating the lock gates at the historic Victoria Lock, with Newry, Mourne and Down Council planning to upgrade and renovate electrical motors as well as flush away sediment that has built up around the gates. Electrical difficulties and silt at the base of the gates have combined to make the operation of the lock a lot more difficult than it should. The lock provides access to the 250 year old Newry Ship Canal to and from Carlingford Lough.
A spokesperson for the council said “Newry Mourne and Down District Council is aware of the issues at Victoria Locks and is in the process of providing a substantial upgrade and renovation on the electrical control systems operating it."
It folllows a lengthy operation two weeks ago where it took over an hour to let five craft coming from the Albert Basin to leave the lock chamber, due to difficulties opening the gates. In the end the gates didn't fully operate but opened sufficiently enough to allow the boats to leave.
The spokesperson explained "To rectify the recent issues opening the lock, Council is currently planning a works process to flush the sediment and silt away which has built up around the gates, causing the hydraulically controlled opening to be somewhat slower and more problematic than anticipated. This is proving difficult with the very dry weather experienced which has resulted in a limited body of water being available for this process.
"Despite the listed complications, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council have ensured the locks are still functioning during this challenging period.”
The spokesperson added "Specialist consultant electrical engineers have been procured to assist Council staff with this work. Unfortunately sections of the existing system have become obsolete following recent issues with the motors that operate the rams on the sluice gates.
"Work is currently ongoing to rectify the situation, this must however follow a procurement exercise and design process for a sustainable long-term working result, the current issues connected with COVID-19 have however impacted on the anticipated timeline."
Vsitors can still book to enter or leave via Victoria Lock although council are trying to limit this "Visitors to Victoria Lock can book for access or egress, if notice is provided. Council is attempting to limit this however with the ongoing works, as specialist electrical engineers are required to be present with Council staff to ensure the system operates effectively." the spokesperson concluded.
