The Scottish Government-funded works include the replacement of the top lock gates at Lock 17, which are not only the largest gates on the Caledonian Canal but the whole canal network in Scotland.

The gates are vital in the flood defence mechanism separating Loch Lochy from the canal infrastructure and communities west of this point. Lock 17 gates at Gairlochy are over 30 years old and therefore based on age, condition and risk, are considered a priority for replacement to remain an effective flood defence.

Catherine Topley, chief executive at Scottish Canals, said: “This planned investment in the Caledonian Canal is critical to ensure the safety of the waterway for all its users and those who live nearby. The lock gates at Gairlochy have been welcoming our boating customers and creating a barrier against Loch Lochy for over 30 years and as they reach the end of their life expectancy it is vital we work to improve these heritage assets so we may safeguard them for another generation.

“The Caledonian Canal welcomes over 1,400 boats each year and contributes significantly to the Highland economy. By investing in our assets at Gairlochy, we are not only improving the canal infrastructure, we are investing in the local area and ensuring the canal can bring tourism for many years to come.”

Works to install the new pair of lock gates will take place from November 2020 to March 2021. This involves two temporary cofferdams installed at Gairlochy; one upstream of Gairlochy Top Lock and the second downstream Gairlochy. The canal between these two temporary dams will be fully dewatered to allow safe dry working conditions. Therefore the canal will be closed to navigation in this area throughout the full works period.

As part of the improvement works, Gairlochy Swing Bridge will also be upgraded. This involves installing new equipment enclosures and operator’s kiosk as well as a full replacement of control systems, traffic barriers, signage and other ancillary equipment in order to comply with regulatory standards and significantly reduce risk of safety to staff and visitors.

Works are due to begin on Gairlochy Swing Bridge in January 2021. Scottish Canals has arranged overnight closure of the bridge in order to minimise disruption to road traffic.

To ensure the safety of the construction site and the efficiency of water control requirements, the Caledonian Canal level has been lowered by 0.5m between Gairlochy and the top of the Banavie flight. This temporary reduction in the canal level will be in place until works are completed in Spring 2021.