Richmond Lock and Weir Annual Draw-off

Weirs open 6th November to 25th December 2011

(Please note the finish date of the Draw-Off has been extended from 27th November to 25th December)

The weirs at Richmond will remain open between 6th and 25th December 2011 so that essential maintenance works on the lock, weirs and sluices can be done and a riverbed inspection carried out. This will allow the river between Richmond Lock and Teddington Lock to drain down at low water on each tide.

During this period river users are reminded that, for the duration of the work, the river will not be maintained at the nominal level of Chart Datum and that the river bed may be exposed.

Owners of boats and structures usually moored between Richmond Lock and Teddington Lock should take action in good time, either to move their boats to more suitable moorings or to assure themselves that the boat is capable of taking the ground over the low waters.

River works licence holders and riparian landowners are reminded that any interference with the foreshore such as dredging, excavating or disturbing the river bed requires a licence from the Port of London Authority.  Recent environmental legislation provides for very high levels of fines when licensing requirements are not strictly adhered to.

Persons navigating through the weirs and upstream of Richmond Lock must do so with great care and should have regard to people working in and around the lock and weirs and be aware that weir gates may be raised and lowered at various times for maintenance purposes.  Additionally, boat owners are reminded to watch their speed and wash when making passage as boats and structures may be grounding during low water.