Fort Augustus Lock Gate Cill Replacement

Mackenzie Construction carried out these essential works on behalf of Scottish Canals in connection with our Contractor Services Framework and involved upgrades that were essential for improving water management, extending the lifespan of the gates, and ensuring safe navigation.

Works at Fort Augustus involved upgrading the lock gate cills—the raised sections on the floor of the lock chamber against which the lock gates seal shut—by replacing the existing concrete cills for lock gates 1–5 on the Caledonian Canal’s Fort Augustus Flight.

The project included installing new steel cills to improve the efficiency and longevity of the lock gates, enhance water management, and provide a better experience for visitors and boaters. Two of the cills were replaced underwater using a specialist dive team, while the remaining three were constructed within a de-watered canal.

Project highlights

The introduction of a dive platform which was utilised for wet works within gates 1 and 2.  This platform has been used for welfare, storage, access and a safe emergency exit and had multiple benefits including reduced project costs due to less crane use being required and the community benefit, by keeping cranes off the road enabling easier pedestrian access and van access etc.

This has been well received by the community, and our client Scottish Canals were pleased with the efficiency savings and additional safety benefits brought by utilising the dive platform.

A temporary plinth was also constructed beside the canal to allow a crane to be situated away from the road rather than causing further disruption for the community.