A second phase of work to replace the sea lock gates at Heybridge Basin in Maldon is due to begin next month.

The scheme, which is being carried out by Essex & Suffolk Water in partnership with Essex Waterways, will involve the installation and commissioning of a new steel sea lock gate and the replacement of the central upstream timber gate.

Preparatory work will start in September, with the lock being closed to the public from Monday, October 2. A footpath diversion will be in place from January to March 2018, when the lock scheduled to be reopened.

Lock-side vehicle access will be restricted on some days during the work but access for pedestrians and emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times.

Some traffic management measures will also be required but advance notice of any access restrictions will be provided by the site team.

Local residents are invited to attend an event at the Jolly Sailor pub at Heybridge Basin on Monday, August 21, between 2pm and 7pm, where they will be able to meet the project team, find out more about the project and ask questions.

Adrian Caswell, project manager for Essex & Suffolk Water, said: “Following the completion of the first phase of work in winter 2016, we will be returning to carry out the second phase of this important project.

“The lock gates are an essential part of this waterway, so we have worked hard to plan a replacement scheme which will ensure that this route can be used and enjoyed for many years to come.

“We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused why we carry out this vital work, and we will be doing everything we can to keep any disruption to a minimum.”

David Smart, navigation manager for Essex Waterways, said: “We are looking forward to the installation of the new Caisson gate this winter. It will be a big improvement for us, bringing 21st Century technology to Heybridge to work alongside the original manual gates dating from the late 1700s.

“I would like to say a big ‘thank you’ in advance to Essex & Suffolk Water and their contractors for all their hard work on this project.”

Further information and regular updates on the project will be available on the Essex & Suffolk Water community portal at www.eswcommunityportal.co.uk/Projects/heybridge. Customers can also register on the portal to receive notification when new updates are available.