Key Broads link to open early after repairs

The Mutford Lock reopened on Wednesday after repairs

A key access point to the Broads has re-opened ahead of schedule following repairs on a centuries-old lock.

Mutford Lock at Oulton Broad in Suffolk provides passage to boats from the Broads to the North Sea.

It is one of only two entry and exit points - with the other being via the Yare at Great Yarmouth in Norfolk.

Emily Leonard, Broads Authority waterways projects officer, said: "This project required a team of highly-skilled experts to carry out the repairs."

Mutford Lock was built in 1828 as part of a series of works to create a new navigation route for traders between the North Sea to Norwich.

It was closed on 12 February to repair most of the 200-year-old structure.

The Broads Authority said they finished the work nine days ahead of schedule, after original plans expected repairs to take two months.

One of the penstock sluices on the gate had failed and needed to be repaired by the Broads Authority and a specialist team.

Navigation through the lock will be restricted to smaller vessels because of a mechanical fault that means the road bridge is unable to lift.

The authority said Suffolk County Council was working to repair the fault.

Ms Leonard added: "Owing to its large size, the operation of Mutford Lock is complex when compared to other inland waterways locks.

"We are now well prepared for ongoing inspection and carrying out any additional maintenance works in the future."