Overview

October 2023 Update

Learning from our current works at the similar Hardmead Sluice, during September we carried out further investigations inside Stanstead Sluice. These investigations gathered more information on the nature of the concrete structure of the sluice and critical dimensions and levels. This information will allow the design and works to be more confidently specified.

Over the coming autumn and winter we are planning to carry out more preparations for the main works at Stanstead Sluice. These will include ensuring the track to the sluice beside the Lee Navigation is temporarily robust enough for the expected size of construction delivery vehicles and works to the control building within the sluice compound.

We are undertaking similar construction works further along the Lee Navigation at Hardmead Sluice towards Ware and are programming that one new gate there will be operable by the autumn. The main works at Stanstead Sluice are unlikely to start until one new gate at Hardmead Sluice is operating.

Investigation into the nature of the sluice's concrete bed

Project Background

The waterways in the Lower Lee valley include the River Lee Navigation, Old River Lea, and the Lee Flood Relief Channel (LFRC). The LFRC was built between 1949 and 1977 and is designed to carry flood water to reduce the likelihood of flooding in the Lower Lee valley. A system of weirs, gates and sluices control water levels in the LFRC. These maintain water levels for water supply, navigation, amenity and environmental purposes while allowing flood flows to pass during storm events.

Stanstead Sluice is a major flood control structure within the LFRC and is located close to the villages of Stanstead Abbotts and St Margarets. It directly reduces the flood risk to 83 properties and contributes benefitting many more as part of the LFRC system. As well as managing flood risk the sluice maintains water levels in the River Lee Navigation.

The current Stanstead Sluice

What we are doing

We will be replacing the gate and improving the operating equipment at Stanstead Sluice, as the existing ones are now reaching the end of their working life after 45 years of service. A failure of Stanstead Sluice would result in increased flood risk and loss of control of upstream water levels. We will replace the existing single sluice gate with two smaller gates.

These improvements will maintain the conveyence of storm flood flows through th structure, sustain the current level of flood management and maintain the ability to control upstream water levels for navigation, water supply, amenity and environmental needs.

The existing sluice is a barrier to the free passage of fish and eels migrating up the river. As part of this project, we will construct new fish and eel passes to enable the free passage of fish and eels around the sluice. This will help increase the length of watercourses these species can migrate along.

How will the works affect me?

During the main works you may notice additional temporary construction noise during the working week.  

Construction vehicles will entering the site using the northern towpath towards Stanstead sluice.  Unrestricted access will be required at all times.

Public Rights of Way will not be impacted.

Location of Stanstead Sluice and our access route (purple dotted line)