Lock no.2, Near Canal Quay, Newry, Co Down

This is a single-chamber canal lock, dating from around 1800 to 1819, located near Canal Quay in Newry, County Down. The canal as a whole holds significant historical interest as the first summit level canal in Britain and Ireland, and this lock is one of fourteen to survive, including a ship lock beyond Newry. The lock’s walls are constructed from large, finely-dressed granite blocks laid in regular courses, with recesses at each end for the gates. Two vertical wall slits are located on each side, positioned above and below the gate sets, likely intended for the insertion of planks during maintenance. The chamber itself measures 21.70 metres (71 feet) long and 4.65 metres (15 feet 6 inches) wide.

The lock has undergone recent refurbishment by Enterprise Ulster. This work included raising the ground around the upper gate, creating a 0.7-metre step in the bank. The walls at the upper end of the chamber were rebuilt using smaller, sawn granite blocks with a different finish than the original walling. Painted steel lock gates have been inserted and are fixed to the sides, preventing them from being closed. Each gate has a single paddle. A rubble granite wall was rebuilt along the east side of the complex, and the ground on both sides of the chamber has been paved with granite flags and cut granite setts. A litter bin, two wooden benches, and a steel railing along the towpath boundary have also been added.

Above the lock, the canal has been infilled to provide access to an island between the canal and the Newry River; water is conveyed to the lock chamber via a concrete pipe. A high concrete block wall now prevents access to the ground on the east side of the chamber.

The Newry canal opened in 1742 and was extensively refurbished by John Brownrigg between 1801 and 1812. It is likely that the present lock structure dates from Brownrigg's work. The canal ceased operation in 1936 and was officially abandoned in 1949. The Newry & Mourne District Council now manages the section within its jurisdiction.