REPAIRS are soon to be completed on a river lock near York.

Work began at Naburn Lock, on the River Ouse, last September, and British Waterways now believe the work will be completed by April 11.

Spokesman Patrick Thornber said the work, which has cost around £800,000, had been severely delayed by flooding. He added that the damage to the lock had been caused by subsidence from mining in the area, leaving the lock in real need of repair.

The changes have seen the demolition of the downstream bull-nose, the central part of the lock, with a completely new one being built.

Builders have also shored up the walls of the lock chamber to maintain safety and efficiency, and have inspected the lock to make sure all the workings are in order.

Mr Thornber said: "It is so important we keep checking the workings, and keep the lock in good order generally. It would cause serious difficulties to the area if this was not maintained."

Sub-contractors Guildford Construction are carrying out the work, with their usual 12 men on site being upped to 16 to meet the April deadline.

Updated: 08:02 Thursday, March 13, 2003