Lock gates used to decorate Market Harborough roundabout

31/08/2009

A pair of canal lock gates have been used as an unusual decoration piece at a roundabout in Market Harborough.

The roundabout, which is located on the A6, has been sponsored by local drinking establishment the Foxton Locks Inn and furnished with a pair of gates decommissioned by British Waterways as part of a canal boat theme.

The lock gates were formerly used at the Watford flight of locks on the Grand Union Canal, Northamptonshire, where they served for around 20 years.

"It is fantastic that the lock gates can be put to good use," commented Richard Delves from British Waterways.

"Foxton Locks is an important heritage site and a key regional attraction, and we hope that the roundabout will encourage even more people to visit."

A new visitor centre and improvements for boaters, walkers and cyclists have all been planned by Leicestershire County Council's cabinet to boost the popularity of local waterways.