THE Clyde Tidal Weir is a unique B-listed weir and bridge structure located at Glasgow Green. It has three large steel sluice gates which are raised or lowered depending on the tide and river conditions allowing the Weir to maintain the River Clyde upstream at a constant level.

These sluice gates were designed by the engineer and inventor of the “Roller Sluice”, Francis Stoney. In all, 180 sluices were built to his designs and they are located across the world including at the Manchester Ship Canal, the River Rhone at Geneva, the Thames at Richmond.

In August 2017, the North gate malfunctioned causing damage to the Tidal Weir. Before it could be lowered back into place, the river level dropped and large parts of banks were exposed. As a consequence, specific areas of the riverbank suffered significant damage. This is still visible at Adelphi Street, Waterside Street and Carstairs Street.

Currently, there are works underway to repair the North gate and upgrade the mechanical and electrical control systems which are projected to cost £2.725 million.

Green Councillors helped secure this funding as part of the budget approved in February 2018. This is the first phase of a programme of works that is required.

It has been reported, this week, only one gate fully operational. More investment is needed to refurbish the middle and south gates to ensure we have a fully functional Tidal Weir. This is estimated to cost £3m. By ensuring that all three weir gates are upgraded and maintained, there is a reduced risk of not being able to bring river levels back under control if one failed.

Along the riverside cycle path, the walkway and adjacent streets there is restoration work needed at the unstable riverbanks and this is estimated to cost around £6m. It is necessary to prioritise this work as part of the efforts to maximise the river’s economic, social and environmental potential. These areas support access to the Clyde Walkway, which is a 65km route between Glasgow City Centre and the World Heritage Site at New Lanark. We can improve and open up the river for visitors, local people and communities with completion of these repairs.

Alongside the restoration of the historic West Boathouse at Glasgow Green, the promotion of the Tidal Weir can encourage people to re-engage with the Clyde. There are six rowing clubs based on the Clyde. The deep, wide channel of water created through Glasgow Green is supporting participation in Olympic sporting endeavours.

The presence of the Weir creates an important habitat for a range of birds, fish and otters. There is an abrupt change from fresh to salt water at the weir’s line. A tidal freshwater section of the Clyde Estuary between the Broomielaw and the weir has become established. We have to appreciate the special contribution of the Clyde Tidal Weir to our city’s heritage and secure its future.