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Wansford Lock facts for kids

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Wansford Lock Bottom Gates
The remains of the bottom gates before restoration

Wansford Lock is a special part of the Driffield Navigation waterway in East Riding of Yorkshire, England. It works like a water elevator, helping boats move up and down the river. This lock first opened a long time ago in 1770. It was later fixed up and made new again in 2009. Because it's an important old structure, it was officially listed as a Grade II building in 1985.

Where is Wansford Lock?

Wansford Lock is located in a small village called Wansford. It's easy to find from the B1249 road. The lock is built right on the Driffield Navigation waterway.

What's Near the Lock?

  • Next Place Upstream: If you were traveling by boat against the water flow, the next lock you would reach is Whinhill Lock.
  • Next Place Downstream: If you were traveling with the water flow, the next important spot is Wansford Bridge.

The Story of Wansford Lock

Wansford Lock was built between 1767 and 1770. This was during the time when the Driffield Navigation was being created. The lock was later brought back to life in two main steps.

How the Lock Was Restored

The first step of the restoration happened in 2008. Workers built a special channel around the lock. This channel helps to control floods. It lets extra water flow around the lock chamber safely.

The second step involved putting in new gates at both the top and bottom of the lock. These new gates help the lock work properly again. The restored Wansford Lock was officially opened on July 4, 2009.

Who Paid for the Restoration?

Many groups helped pay for this important project. The Inland Waterways Association gave money. The East Riding of Yorkshire Council also helped with funding. Another big helper was Waste Recycling Environmental Limited (WREN). WREN gives money to projects that are close to landfill sites.

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