ROV Survey at Keadby Lock Uncovers Historic Structure

Edwards Diving Services has recently completed a specialist inspection at Keadby Lock on the tidal River Trent, supporting the Canal & River Trust in investigating a significant leak around the lock gates.

Using our remotely operated vehicle (ROV) equipment, the team carried out detailed sonar and LiDAR scanning within the structure. The survey revealed an unknown sluice chamber that had been closed off many years ago and had since begun allowing water to leak into the lock.

The high-resolution scan data gave the Canal & River Trust’s engineering and design teams a clear understanding of the source and behaviour of the leak. Crucially, this information will allow repairs to be planned accurately ahead of dewatering, helping to avoid unnecessary disruption and keeping the canal operational.

Keadby Lock had been experiencing ongoing issues with water leakage. Identifying the hidden chamber was a strong outcome for all involved – enabling a targeted repair solution for the client and demonstrating the value of combining ROV technology with experienced survey interpretation.

The project was led by James Breeze, Survey Manager, and Rob Humphries, Geomatic Surveyor.

James Breeze commented: “This was a really rewarding project. The lock had a complex leakage issue, and the ability to deploy ROV-based sonar and LiDAR allowed us to investigate areas that would have been extremely difficult to access otherwise. Identifying the historic sluice chamber gave the Canal & River Trust exactly the insight they needed to move forward with confidence.”

Rob Humphries added: “The quality of the scan data was key. Being able to provide accurate, visual information meant the engineering team could clearly see what was happening inside the structure and plan the repair properly, without closing the canal. It’s a great example of how survey-led decision-making can save time and reduce disruption.”

This project highlights how Edwards Diving Services supports infrastructure owners with precise, non-intrusive inspection solutions that inform safe and efficient maintenance planning.

Click here to find out more about our ROV services and the full range of specialist support we offer.