Troubled canal lock closes again

Divers will be called in again to assess safety concerns on the sea lock

The Crinan Canal sea lock was forced to close again at the weekend just hours after re-opening following new concerns about its safety.

The structure had been closed for two-weeks to repair a failed bond between the concrete cill and the lock floor.

British Waterways Scotland said that although the repair held, new concerns surfaced about other parts of the lock.

Divers will now be called back in to assess the problems. The lock will remain closed until further notice.

A statement from British Waterways Scotland said: "On monitoring the Crinan Canal sea lock following its closure for a temporary repair, it has become clear that although the repair itself is sound, other parts of the lock cill are now giving cause for concern.

"As public safety is at the forefront of our operations, British Waterways Scotland has taken the decision to close the lock once again to minimise any risk.

"We will not be accepting vessels through the Crinan Canal, certainly for the next few days. We will undertake a detailed assessment of these new problems over the next 48 hours. "

Anyone who is planning passage through the lock over the next few days is advised to call the Ardrishaig canal office.