All tight and tidy at The Ocean

These pictures by CCT's Mike Gallagher show the current colourful scene at The Ocean.

The bridge realignment works have been completed and safety fences have been removed to reveal the bridge in in all its glory; set as it is in one the canal’s most picturesque, and photogenic, locations.

Realignment was necessary as the original configuration was found to take larger vehicles dangerously close to the eaves of the adjacent houses.

Yet to be rectified

One element yet to be rectified is the unnecessarily heavy winding mechanism.
Boaters will recognise the hydraulic pump device currently in place.

British Waterways once installed what proved to be a problematic pumping contraption to lift lock paddles.

Representations regarding the impossibly high winding position have been made and a solution is promised.

Looking on the bright side

Looking on the brighter side… the towpath side in fact… here is some good news for walkers.

The Campaign to Protect Rural England (Stroud District) has purchased one of the CCT’s canal-side corporate benches specifically for The Ocean.

The hard working volunteer team from the Trust’s Western Depot at Eastington will soon deliver and install the bench (manufactured by their colleagues) to The Ocean.

It will be in a prime position alongside the towpath just to the west of the bridge. Walkers, cyclists, (and one day boaters) will then be able to enjoy the tranquillity and views from the comfort of the seat.

Click here to find out more about the CCT Corporate / Commmemorative Bench.