River draw-off

The water levels from Richmond to the end of the Tidal Thames in Teddington are usually maintained artificially high by the "curtains" at Richmond half-tide lock. These are gates that prevent the water from flowing downstream at times.

The "curtains" are normally open 2 hours each side of high tide, thus bringing fresh water upstream of Richmond half-tide lock. They are shut at other times, preventing the ebbing tide from emptying the river.

Occasionally during the month of November, the curtains are left open to drain the river. At low tide, it is then possible to conduct surveys or repair work on the river bed.

These photos were taken in November 2003.

Teddington barge lock.

When the water level is low, the sluices are visible.

Richmond Bridge. People can be seen wading in the water near the second pile.

Teddington Lifeboat slipway during the draw off (left). When the water levels are so low, there is very little room for maneuvre.

Teddington Weir (below) and the weir pool.

All Photos on this page

© Peter Ross, 2003