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River Tees
This medieval trading river was until recently a major commercial navigation. Now, the rural surroundings and impressive Tees Barrage draw walkers and pleasure boaters to enjoy life on the water.
The Tees Navigation runs in from south-west to north-east for 24 miles, from Cross Fell in the Pennines to the North Sea near Middlesbrough. Now that the river no longer reflects the glow from steel works and shipyards, it is becoming more accessible to the people of Teesside and beyond.
The Tees Barrage is 70 metres wide, 32 metres long and sits on a giant, reinforced raft comprising 16,500 cubic metres of concrete. Its four 50-tonne gates are each operated by a 21-tonne hydraulic ram and control the river's flow. Visitors can stroll over the Tees across its pedestrian bridge to see its navigation lock and enjoy the impressive panoramic views.
Tees Barrage White Water Course
The Tees Barrage White Water Course at Stockton-On-Tees is currently undergoing a £4.6m improvement scheme which will ensure an international standard facility, attracting world class athletes and events. The site has already been confirmed as a Pre-Games Training Camp ahead of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympics games.
The improvements involve re-designing the main course, building a second shorter course and installing huge 12m long by 3m diameter Archimedean screws which will create the world’s greenest whitewater course.
Funding for the £4.6m course upgrade is provided by One North East, Sport England, Stockton Council, Tees Active and British Waterways.
Read about the change of operations to the Tees Barrage
Join us on facebook to follow progress of the redevelopment and see the latest photos. Further info is avilable at www.teesactive.co.uk
Image shows how the Tees Barrage White Water Course will appear once completed
