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Million pound refurbishment for Canning Gate

27th Oct 2005

An essential £1 million refurbishment of the Canning River Entrance Gate will begin this week.

British Waterways is carrying out vital maintenance to the gate and associated equipment so that it can continue to operate successfully for another twenty years. The Hartley and Canning swing bridges will be overhauled at the same time.

The Canning River Gate is the gateway between the River Mersey and Liverpool’s South Docks, and ensures that the water level in the South Docks does not fluctuate with the tide movements in the river.

The Canning River Entrance was originally completed in 1844 when the Albert Dock was built. The existing River Gate was installed in 1984 as part of the regeneration of Liverpool South Docks and has now reached its twenty year half life milestone.

British Waterways has appointed local firm Warbreck Engineering to carry out the refurbishment which will take six months and will be completed by Spring 2006. The marine service company based in Liverpool provides services for boat building, ship repair and conversion, as well as general engineering projects for many local and national companies.
Construction of temporary cofferdams and installation of temporary pedestrian bridges to divert pedestrians away from the work area are an essential part of the work.

Restoration of the South Docks is an important ingredient in the ongoing reanimation of Liverpool’s waterfront - which is part of British Waterways’ vision for the future development of the waterspace.

The Canning River Entrance Swing Bridge and the Riverside Walkway behind the Albert Dock will be closed to all pedestrians while work is being carried out and will reopen in Spring 2006.

British Waterways has devised a pedestrian management plan to cause the least disruption to residents and visitors.

British Waterways is working closely with partners in Liverpool in the build up to European Capital of Culture 2008.

Find out more about the refurbishment and British Waterways' pedestrian management plan.

Last updated: 22/10/2008