+44 (0)333 202 6800Canal Lock in the Cotswolds
Executive Summary
The Cotswold Canals Trust required a long‑life, low‑maintenance material for the restoration of Blunder Lock, a historic lock on the Stroudwater Navigation. Traditional timber planks had deteriorated over time, contributing to water leakage and limiting the lock’s usability.
As part of the 2013 restoration, Plaswood recycled‑plastic lumber was installed on one of the top gates to assess its suitability for long‑term use in wet, high‑wear environments.
A recent inspection has shown that the Plaswood‑fitted gate is performing effectively, with significantly lower water leakage than the adjacent timber‑fitted gate installed at the same time.
The result: a durable, low‑maintenance solution supporting the ongoing restoration and operation of a historic waterway.
About the Client
The Cotswold Canals Trust is a volunteer‑led charity dedicated to restoring and preserving the Stroudwater Navigation and Thames & Severn Canal. The organisation works with local authorities, engineers and heritage specialists to bring historic waterways back into use.
With a focus on long‑term restoration, operational reliability and heritage preservation, the Trust requires materials that can withstand continuous water exposure and reduce maintenance demands.
The Challenge
Blunder Lock, originally built in 1777, required significant restoration after years of deterioration. During the 2013 works, the Trust faced several challenges:
- Timber components had degraded, contributing to water leakage and operational issues.
- High moisture exposure created ongoing maintenance requirements.
- Long‑term durability was essential to protect heritage structures and reduce future repair needs.
The Trust sought a material that could provide consistent performance in wet environments while supporting the lock’s long‑term restoration.
The Solution
During the 2013 restoration, Plaswood recycled‑plastic lumber sections were installed on one of the top gates at Blunder Lock. The adjacent gate was fitted with traditional timber planks, enabling a direct comparison over time.
The Plaswood installation offered:
- Recycled‑plastic lumber designed for durability in wet and harsh environments.
- Low‑maintenance performance, with no requirement for painting, staining or chemical treatment.
- Resistance to rot, moisture and insect attack, supporting long service life.
- Compatibility with heritage structures, enabling integration with existing materials.
A recent inspection confirmed that the Plaswood‑fitted gate is performing effectively, with water leakage described as “virtually non‑existent” and significantly lower than the leakage observed through the timber‑fitted gate.
*Recycled content percentage may vary by product specification.
The Results
The use of Plaswood at Blunder Lock has delivered several benefits for the Cotswold Canals Trust:
- Reduced water leakage, supporting lock functionality and water management.
- Lower maintenance requirements, helping volunteers and engineers focus on wider restoration work.
- Consistent performance in wet conditions, supporting long‑term operational reliability.
- A practical alternative to timber, particularly in areas exposed to continuous moisture.
- Positive evaluation, with the Trust considering Plaswood for future restoration projects.
The Trust has expressed satisfaction with the material’s performance and its suitability for heritage environments requiring durable, low‑maintenance solutions.
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