RIVER bosses have unveiled plans to fully automate the Tees Barrage next year.

The Canal and River Trust is speaking to staff about the plans which would remove the “need for 24/7 manual intervention” at the Stockton landmark.

It’s understood this could see the barrage monitored remotely.

A spokesperson for the Canal and River Trust said: “As the guardians of 2,000 miles of canals, rivers, reservoirs and listed structures across England and Wales, our charity is constantly looking to improve the care and protection we can give to the waterways.

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“The trust has started speaking with staff and key external stakeholders regarding plans to fully automate Tees Barrage which keeps existing monitoring and service without the need for 24/7 manual intervention.

“It is anticipated that the new system could be in place by Spring 2022 – allowing time for a consultation process and testing period.”

The Tees Barrage was completed in 1995 with the £55m scheme considered the largest civil engineering project in the UK at the time.

A major five year restoration was completed last year – with all four of its gates and cylinders refurbished for the first time in 25 years.

The barrage has made the area visitor attraction with water sports flourishing in the area.

Canoeing, dragon boat racing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, rowing, windsurfing, water-skiing, white water rafting, sailing, angling and even powerboat racing have all taken place.

It has a lock for boat navigation, fish passes for migratory fish and generates electricity from tidal power.

Film crews have also used its adjoining International White Water Centre.

Stockton Council leader Cllr Bob Cook did not wish to comment on the automation plans ahead of talks lined up with the Canal and River Trust in the new year.

The charity said it welcomed feedback on the plans at: enquiries.yorkshirenortheast@canalrivertrust.org.uk.

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