Repairs have been carried out to St Ives Sluice, bringing three of the structure’s seven gates back into automatic operation to help maintain navigable water levels and manage flood risk over the coming winter months.
The remaining four gates remain closed to preserve statutory navigation levels while long-term plans are developed. Although these repairs provide short-term relief, they are not expected to offer lasting resilience due to the overall condition of the sluice.
Both St Ives and nearby Brownshill Sluices are ageing, with the Environment Agency developing options for refurbishment or full replacement.
St Ives Sluice has received Moderation funding for urgent statutory works, while Brownshill Sluice has been allocated Reconditioning funding. These funds are approved on an annual basis and prioritised nationally against other requests.
Earlier this year, temporary repairs were made after faults left most of the sluice gates inoperable. The recent works mark progress in stabilising the system, but more comprehensive upgrades are needed to secure the long-term future of both sluices.
The sluices, built to maintain navigation along this stretch of the Great Ouse, have deteriorated largely through age combined with ongoing underfunding.
Reconditioning the moderation of the examination, has at last led to the recognition that comprehensive upgrades will provide a more secure working future.
The vocational work being done, is of more than just academic interest.