Bid to install new decorative lock gates on Newport canal

The Shrewsbury & Newport Canals Trust (SNCT) and Newport Town Council (NTC) hope the gates, which would be placed near Roving Bridge at the lock known as Newport Lock – 255m southeast of Wrekin View Farm – will add to the rich heritage of the area.

The application submitted to Telford & Wrekin Council would allow the decorative locks to be fixed in the open position and will not "disturb" historic stonework at the site.

A design and access statement submitted with the application says the gates set to be used have already been donated by the Canal & River Trust.

It states: "The proposed work is to re-hang the redundant lock gates cut down to fit the recesses at the downstream end of the lock.

"The lock gates will be fixed in place in the open position.

"The SNCT and NTC wish to do this to enhance the historic realism of the canal in the town and to enhance the experience of visitors by making the site reflect its history.

Historic stonework

"The redundant gates have already been donated to SNCT by the Canal & River Trust.

"They are full size gates taken from Lock 10 on the Audlem lock flight of the Shropshire Union Canal.

"They will be cut down with a chainsaw and fitted by contractors.

"Care has been taken to ensure that the historic stonework will not be disturbed, all fixing being done into the lock infill although existing metalwork will be used to fit the gates' collar."

The application adds: "When complete this project will draw attention to the canal in Newport by enhancing the built environment by making the lock look more like a working lock and re-emphasising the importance of the bridge in the context of its proximity to the canal."

Telford & Wrekin Council's planning department is set to decide on the application in coming weeks.