Lock visiting time again

THERE is no doubt that the idea of allowing the public to inspect locks whilst they are being repaired, is a good one, creating a deal of interest in the waterways.

So the policy is obviously continuing with Stret Lock on the Chesterfield Canal near Worksop being open to the public on Sunday 25th November.

Boats jammed

Visitors will be allowed down into the lock chamber and question the people in charge of the maintenance.  This is the lock in which many boats have been jammed, as its sides have bowed inwards, and the work will rectify this problem.

There have been lots of theories about the problem, some even suggesting that the lock is banana-shaped. This is fairly ironic because Stret Lock is thought to be a corruption of Straight Lock.  However, the general consensus is that, in the 230 odd years since the lock was built, the ground pressure has simply forced the walls inwards.

Widening scheme

The lock widening scheme involves taking down two of the outer brick courses on the towpath side and replacing them with one course, increasing the width by 50mm. The wall will not be taken down fully to the lock floor but will extend beyond the minimum depth dimension for the canal.

The lock will be opened at 10am with no booking required. The last entry will be at 3.15pm. Visitors are advised to wear sensible sturdy footwear or wellies. Parking will be available next to the lock at the Lock Keeper pub which is off the Sainsbury's roundabout on the A57 in Worksop—SatNav S80 1TJ.

The Chesterfield Canal Trust will have its promotional trailer and sales stall in attendance. Its 83 years old historic ex-British Waterways working boat, Python, will be moored above the lock.