Northamptonshire locks repeatedly targeted by vandals as crucial water supplies drain away
Locks across Northamptonshire have been targeted by vandals, with the Environment Agency warning that tampering with vital water controls is putting lives at risk and worsening the impact of dry conditions.
Northampton Town Lock, Billing Lock and Whiston Lock are among a string of locations affected by vandalism and antisocial behaviour.
Other Northamptonshire sites include Upper and Lower Wellingborough Locks, Irthlingborough Lock, Denford Lock, Nine Arches Mooring, Lower Barnwell Lock and Ashton Lock near Oundle.
The Environment Agency says tampering with sluices, locks and other structures can lower water levels, disrupt navigation, harm wildlife and habitats and create serious safety hazards.
Ashton Lock has been one of the worst-hit locations. Vandals damaged its winding wheel, forcing it to be removed for repairs, before a temporary replacement was stolen.
The lock's guillotine gate was subsequently tampered with, draining water needed for wildlife and navigation.
In another incident, a life buoy and rope were taken from a safety station, with the rope used to tie open the lock doors before the guillotine gate was wound up, draining water upstream.
The Environment Agency says people have also climbed on guillotine gates and attempted to break into control panels.
Manually opening lock paddles has become a particular problem on the River Nene, draining stretches of river above the locks. During dry conditions, levels can take considerable time to recover.
Ben Thornely, area manager for the Environment Agency, said: “We are disgusted with the level of vandalism we are experiencing at our vital water control structures.
“This puts lives in danger and has big implications for wildlife and navigation during drought.”
Anyone witnessing vandalism or antisocial behaviour is urged to report it to police and the Environment Agency.