Tidal Weir Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Tidal Constructed?

The Tidal Weir was constructed in 1901 by Glasgow Corporation to maintain water levels in the upstream section of the River Clyde from Glasgow Green to Carmyle.

How big is the Tidal Weir?

In engineering terms, the Weir is an underflow tidal sluice and consists of a bridge forming three arches which spans the River Clyde. Each arch houses a steel gate measuring 24.4m across and 3.65m deep (80ft across and 12ft deep).

How do you move the Tidal Weir gates?

The steel gates, each weighing 40 tons can be individually raised or lowered using electrically driven windlasses utilising gearing and counterbalance weights to assist with the movement of the gates.

The gates move vertically in guides contained within the two masonry abutments and two intermediate masonry piers; and are connected by chains to counteract movement within the abutments and piers.

Three steel arches linking the abutments and piers, assist with the lifting mechanism and support a footpath (no public access). The structure also supports two large water main pipes which cross the Clyde at this point.