Vandalism of Waterways Endangers Lives and Exacerbates Drought Effects

The Environment Agency is calling on the public to refrain from interfering with sluices, locks, and various water control mechanisms, following a notable increase in vandalism across its waterways this summer. This appeal comes in the wake of drought conditions being officially declared in Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire.

Damage inflicted on water infrastructure is exacerbating the challenges of managing already precariously low water levels, thereby posing risks to public safety. Such tampering not only diminishes water levels but also disrupts navigation, threatens wildlife and their habitats, and generates significant safety hazards for those in the vicinity.

Vandalism at Ashton Lock

Ashton Lock, situated near Oundle, has been particularly affected, with vandals damaging its winding wheel. This necessitated its removal for repairs, and although a temporary solution was implemented, it was subsequently stolen. The lock’s guillotine gate, responsible for regulating water flow, has also been interfered with, draining vital water supplies necessary for both wildlife and navigation.

In a troubling incident at the same lock, individuals removed a life buoy and its rope from a safety station, using the rope to keep the lock’s doors ajar while also winding up the guillotine gate, thereby depleting the upstream water. This pattern of behaviour has recurred on multiple occasions and has been reported to the authorities.

In addition to these incidents, there have been attempts to break into control panel boxes, as well as reckless behaviour including climbing on guillotine gates and jumping into locks, where hidden hazards pose serious risks to individuals engaging in such activities.

Impact on the River Nene

A frequent issue observed on the River Nene involves individuals manually winding up lock paddles, which results in the drainage of the river stretch above. The most severely affected area lies between Upper and Lower Barnwell locks, which is home to Oundle Marina, a location where some residents live aboard their vessels. Here, water levels can drop rapidly and, during periods of drought, may take an extended time to recover.

Reports have also surfaced of individuals climbing onto or breaking into weed-cutting boats that are stationed on the riverbank during maintenance activities.

Environment Agency’s Response

Ben Thornely, Area Manager for the Environment Agency, expressed profound concern regarding the level of vandalism affecting crucial water control structures. He remarked, “This puts lives in danger and has significant implications for wildlife and navigation during drought. If you witness any acts of vandalism or antisocial behaviour at our assets, please report them to the police and to us at 0800 807060.”

The Environment Agency is actively implementing measures to safeguard its infrastructure. These include deploying volunteers at sites along the Great Ouse to deter vandals, installing CCTV at certain locations linked to council control rooms equipped with speakers, and conducting regular safety inspections.

Locations of Concern

Several locations have been identified as particularly vulnerable to vandalism, including but not limited to:

• Northampton Town Lock
• Whiston Lock
• Billing Lock
• Upper and Lower Wellingborough Locks
• Irthlingborough Lock
• Denford Lock
• Nine Arches Mooring
• Lower Barnwell Lock
• Elton Lock
• Alwalton Lock

Safety Guidelines for River Users

To ensure safety around rivers, the Environment Agency advises the following precautions:

• Avoid jumping or diving into the water, as depth can vary and hidden hazards may exist.
• Steer clear of weirs, locks, pipes, and sluices, as these features can be associated with strong currents.
• Be aware that inland waters can be very cold, regardless of the weather, and entering cold water can induce cramp and breathing difficulties.
• Remain vigilant for boat traffic, as larger vessels may struggle to spot swimmers.

Water Management Initiatives

The Environment Agency is undertaking essential work in Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire to manage water levels effectively. The vital Trent Witham Ancholme scheme has the capacity to pump the equivalent of 60 Olympic-sized swimming pools of water each day if necessary. This initiative supports over 100 abstraction licences held by various stakeholders, including water companies, farmers, and industrial users who rely on the Rivers Ancholme and Witham.

Furthermore, the Agency is collaborating with farmers, growers, and water companies to promote sustainable water use during dry spells. This includes implementing temporary restrictions on abstraction licences and facilitating water transfers between abstractors. The Environment Agency also ensures that water companies maintain robust drought plans, although decisions regarding hosepipe bans lie with the individual companies.