Thames lock project completed with steel

New heavy-duty steel gates have been supplied to the historic Romney Lock on the River Thames by ECS Engineering Services.

Sub-contractor Scottish Galvanizers (part of the Wedge Group) was called upon to provide protective hot dip galvanizing treatment to the gates 28t of steel.

ECS says, due to the size of the new gates, measuring 4.7m in height, 6.2m in width and weighing 7t each, Scottish Galvanizers was contracted as it is the only galvanizing plant in the UK to have the appropriately-sized headroom facility to accommodate these fabrications.

Once galvanized the steel gates were returned to ECS Engineering in Nottinghamshire for installation.

ECS Commercial Director Clark Williamson said: “The project continues the collaboration between ECS and the Environment Agency to improve the reliability and safety of the lock complex on the River Thames, and is similar to work carried out at Grafton, Abington and Old Windsor. It’s really important that these lock gates are secure and reliable, to ensure that those who spend time on the river have a safe and enjoyable experience.”

Scottish Galvanizers Customer Service Manager Paul Tait said: “This was a great project to be involved with especially for its high historical and current importance. Galvanizing a structure this big takes careful consideration and due diligence, but with the facilities here we were able to coat the gates inside and outside with ease.

Romney Lock was opened in 1797 and the gates were originally built of oak. The lock has been rebuilt several times in the last 200 years and it is now regularly maintained by the EA.