Lock staff on the Thames have over 900 years of combined experience managing locks and weirs.  They are a dedicated and highly experienced group who take pride in providing service to the public.  Their unique understanding of the river has been quietly keeping people, property and wildlife safe.

The falling numbers of trained staff has significantly slowed response times to weirs meaning river levels fluctuate more and more.  This has resulted in property flooding, damage to vessels and wildlife, and animal mortality.

With the effect of climate change this can only get worse.

Every year lock keepers save lives and prevent countless injuries, but their concerns for public safety have been ignored by the Environment Agency in favour of perceived cost cutting.

The reality is that there is more than enough money within the agency to properly fund safe staffing levels:

• £1.1 million per year in uncollected revenue
• £1 million per year in unnecessary contracts
• £ millions lost from commercial opportunities

Public safety concerns are being ignored.  Hundreds of vessels are being damaged, abandoned or are running dangerously.  Locks are breaking down every weekend. Homes and businesses are at increased risk of flooding.  Drinking water supplies are being put at risk.  Wildlife is being damaged.  The leisure industry is being brought to its knees.  Millions of pounds are being wasted every year.

Help us stop the Environment Agency destroying the River Thames.  Sign our petition today.