Reprieve for lock keepers

The Environment Agency (EA) has agreed to put on hold any changes to the way lock keepers operate for six months. 

The EA had proposed to sell or rent cottages along the Thames that are currently occupied by the lock keepers and their families which had angered those who would be affected by them.

The decision follows a meeting held at Cookham lock, that was attended by the Minister of State for Environment, Phil Woolas, and a number of lock keepers and their wives. 

Representatives from the EA listened to their views, and the arguments put forward by Maidenhead MP Theresa May, and Reading West MP Martin Salter, who were also at the meeting.  

Following last Thursday's discussions in Cookham, a spokesman from the EA said: "We have agreed to put on hold any changes proposed by the lock house review until we have completed our full review of Waterways staff roles and responsibilities, and terms and conditions." 

See Thursday's week's Advertiser for more.