Teddington Lock Offices revitalised to provide modern gateway to tidal Thames
Widely accepted as the gateway to the tidal Thames and immortalised as the location of Monty Python’s ‘Fish Dance’ sketch, Teddington Lock Offices has recently benefitted from an Environment Agency refurbishment, carried out by framework contractors ECS Engineering Services. This latest investment improves the facilities for the multitude of leisure visitors and the lock operators who manage the lock 24 hours a day.
ECS was contracted to renovate the staff and public WC’s, install a new shower for staff, replace the drainage and update the internal aesthetics and safety features of the building accordingly, including the unblocking of an existing doorway to allow installation of a new fire safety door.
The staff quarters inside the office were the main focus for the project, with the installation of a new shower, toilet facilities and locker room high on the agenda. Another major concern was the drainage of the building, where ECS was required to update and remap the existing pipework to avoid damage by damp and attain the required regulatory standards.
Furthermore, the existing open roof structure of the staff area required enclosing with a new, lowered ceiling, coupled with the installation of a 200 mm insulation quilt to minimise heat loss and maximise efficiency. New lighting was also installed to decrease energy usage, compounding the efficiency benefits.
The public WC also received a complete renovation. The toilets were replaced, new white paint applied and helpful grab rails installed. This increased support for disabled patrons was also supplemented by the addition of a ramp. To further protect the quality of environment of the facility, anti-vandal light fittings were also installed. The final result was a more modern, user friendly toilet block.
Safety features were also replaced, with a new fire alarm system added in compliance with BS 5893 standards, plus illuminated signs were fitted leading to the new fire exit door.
ECS Engineering Services completed the project on time without incident – while also protecting the local environment and wildlife from undue contamination or disturbance, a great concern due to the numbers of tourists who enjoy the area.
With the work now completed, those who wish to enjoy the rich waters of the tidal Thames and those who operate its extensive locks can utilise a modern and efficient facility which is more in tune with the tranquil surroundings.