What new technologies are being used at Bedford Lock?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and high-resolution underwater cameras are being used for the renovation.

How much is the renovation of the River Great Ouse lock costing?

The renovation project for Bedford Lock is costing £2 million.

When is the Bedford Lock renovation expected to be finished?

The Bedford Lock renovation is expected to be completed by March 2026.

Home / Technology / AI & Cameras Transform Lock Repair

AI & Cameras Transform Lock Repair

27 Dec, 2025

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Summary

New AI technology was used in the £2m renovation of Bedford Lock.
High-resolution underwater cameras provided unprecedented lock condition data.
AI analysis of 3D models will guide future renovation strategies.

The Environment Agency has begun a significant £2m renovation project for Bedford Lock, situated on the River Great Ouse. This ambitious undertaking, which commenced in October and is scheduled for completion by March 2026, is leveraging cutting-edge technologies to ensure optimal results.

For the first time in such a project, a high-resolution camera system was deployed to meticulously inspect the underwater state of the lock. The data gathered allowed for the creation of detailed 3D models, providing an unprecedented view of the structure's condition and any potential issues that require attention.

Following the data capture, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now being employed to analyze these comprehensive 3D models. Project manager Steven Wilby indicated that these successful underwater scans represent a reliable method that can be adopted for future maintenance and renovation tasks, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in infrastructure management.