Shiplake Lock reopened after two week closure for repairs

Shiplake Lock, between Shiplake and Lower Shiplake on the edge of Oxfordshire, was closed for nearly two weeks while repairs were carried out.

A boat crash on Tuesday, April 7 had caused the gates to be knocked out of place, leaving the boat unnavigable for barges.

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The Environment Agency shut the lock to all river traffic ‘until further notice’ so that it could inspect the damage and carry out repairs.

Shiplake Lock was damaged by a boat crash (Image: Environment Agency)

Today, Monday, April 20, the agency said Shiplake Lock has been fully reopened.

One further brief closure has been planned for a ‘final inspection’ from 9am on Wednesday, April 22.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “Shiplake Lock is now open for navigation.

“As a precaution, we will be conducting a final inspection of the lock from 9am Wednesday 22 April.

“Please be aware the lock will be closed for a short period of time whilst this inspection is completed.

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“We thank river users for their patience and understanding.”

An initial opening date of Thursday, April 16 was pushed back after the extent of the required repairs was discovered.

Contractors put together a floating pontoon and crane assembly which allowed the lock gate to be partially lifted and put back into place by a crew.