The Drive Lines offices are based in Bedford, where we are surrounded by a network of busy waterways, which have been undergoing significant investment and upgrading. These upgrades include changes to the manual lock gates, replacing them with electromechanical components which can be controlled more efficiently.
We have worked with companies designing and building these replacement canal lock and weir gates, not just locally but across the UK, pulling together components from ADE-WERK, AUMA and Fairfield Control Systems, among others.
There are many benefits of an electromechanical lock or weir system over the traditional hand-powered or hydraulic options. Not only is it less physical and safer for users, but these systems are also clean, safe, and self-contained, which means there’s no negative impact on the natural environment or risk of lubricants leaking into the water.
As so many areas across the UK are investing in cleaner water management options, protecting against floods, and reinvigorating the nationwide canal system, it’s a good time to consider the best components to future proof those investments, and to ensure that the environmental impact is reduced.
The UK’s canal system was a vital part of the industrial revolution and, though it may be little used for industry today, it has proven to be a very popular resource for tourism, housing, and recreation. The protection of the natural environment in and around canals is also a hugely important concern, with many areas investing in rejuvenating green spaces, re-establishing wildflowers and native woodlands, and providing safe spaces for flora and fauna to thrive.
Locally it’s been exciting to see such investment into the rejuvenation of the waterways, connecting to other locations and giving people the safe, clean outside spaces that matter so much for our wellbeing.
If you are looking into which components will best suit your own projects for waterway rejuvenation, flood protection or water management for rivers, canals and reservoirs, call the Drive Lines team for recommendations and technical information. Call 01234 360689 or email us on enquiries@drivelines.co.uk
