Diveworks International delivered specialist sluice gate servicing and replacements at Center Parcs Woburn Forest, supporting critical water management infrastructure. The asset controlled water flow across the site; however, mechanical resistance had begun to affect performance and long-term reliability.

Therefore, our team implemented a targeted programme of bunging and blanking, underwater inspection, and mechanical servicing. As a result, we restored full functionality while ensuring safe access and minimal disruption to operations.

The Challenge

Water infrastructure projects often present complex risks. In this case, several constraints required careful planning and control:

♦ Continuous water flow within the inlet system
♦ Confined-space access limitations
♦ Poor visibility for underwater inspection
♦ Mechanical fouling and debris build-up
♦ Strict safety requirements within an active leisure environment

Consequently, the project demanded a controlled isolation method before any servicing or inspection could begin.

Our Solution – Bunging and Blanking Strategy

Water Isolation Using Bunging and Blanking
First, our commercial diving team installed an inflatable pipe bung combined with a temporary damming system. This bunging and blanking solution isolated the inlet pipe and stopped water ingress completely.
As a result, we created a dry and controlled environment inside the sluice chamber. This step reduced risk and allowed safe entry for both divers and confined-space operatives.

Underwater Inspection👉 More Info

Next, divers carried out a full underwater inspection of the inlet pipe and surrounding infrastructure. The inspection confirmed that the isolation remained effective and identified no structural concerns.
In addition, we captured video footage to support future maintenance planning and provide a verified inspection record.

Confined Space Inspection
Once isolation was confirmed, our confined-space team entered the chamber and completed a detailed assessment of mechanical components, including:

Threaded operating systems
Gate assemblies
Control mechanisms
Wear points and lubrication condition

The inspection quickly identified debris and contamination as the main cause of resistance in the sluice gate operation.

Sluice Gate Servicing and Mechanical Rehabilitation

Following inspection, we completed a structured sluice gate servicing programme to restore performance:

♦ Removal of debris and fouling
♦ Cleaning of mechanical drive systems
♦ Inspection of moving parts
♦ Application of specialist lubricants
♦ Functional testing of the full system

As a result, the sluice gate operated smoothly and reliably once again.

Results

The project delivered measurable improvements in safety, performance, and asset reliability:

♦ Successful bunging and blanking to isolate water flow
♦ Safe completion of diving and confined-space operations
♦ Full restoration of sluice gate operation
♦ Removal of mechanical fouling and contamination
♦ Verified asset condition with no structural defects
♦ Zero accidents or environmental incidents
♦ Minimal disruption to site operations

Operational testing confirmed that the system now performs safely, efficiently, and consistently.

Key Insights

♦ Mechanical Fouling Reduced Efficiency
♦ Debris build-up restricted movement and increased wear. Therefore, early intervention prevented future failure.
♦ Bunging and Blanking Enabled Safe Access
♦ The isolation strategy controlled water flow effectively and removed risk during confined-space work.
♦ Proactive Maintenance Improves Reliability
♦ Routine servicing reduces long-term costs and extends the life of critical infrastructure.

Benefits of Sluice gate maintenance to the Client

Center Parcs achieved several long-term advantages:

♦ Improved reliability of water control systems
♦ Reduced risk of mechanical failure
♦ Enhanced operational resilience
♦ Better asset visibility and condition understanding
♦ Lower long-term maintenance costs
♦ Extended infrastructure lifespan

This project highlights Diveworks International’s ability to deliver sluice gate servicing and replacements in complex environments. By combining bunging and blanking, commercial diving, and confined-space expertise, we restored a critical asset safely and efficiently.