Revolutionising Coating Processes at Irthlingborough Lock: A Sustainable Approach with Specialist Painting Group and JN Bentley
Specialist Painting Group (SPG), working in partnership with JN Bentley, delivered a complete refurbishment of the steel sluice gates and lock structures at Irthlingborough Lock, Northamptonshire. The project showcased an innovative approach to surface preparation and coating application that reduced cost, risk and environmental impact while significantly accelerating delivery times.
Challenges
The Environment Agency’s traditional refurbishment method relied on abrasive blasting, which introduced several risks:
Potential contamination of land and nearby watercourses
Large volumes of hazardous waste, particularly lead-based materials
Increased health and safety risks for operatives
High downtime during poor weather due to strict application conditions
Escalating project costs due to plant rental and standing time
These challenges highlighted the need for a smarter, safer, and more sustainable approach.
SPG’s Innovative Solution
SPG replaced conventional abrasive blasting with RPR Heat Induction—a method that efficiently removes coatings without contaminating the environment or exposing workers to harmful substances. Following removal, surfaces were mechanically prepared, then treated with a Moisture-Cured Polyurethane (MCPU) system, which cures using ambient humidity rather than temperature or dry weather conditions.
This system has been successfully implemented across critical infrastructure projects for clients including:
EDF
Network Rail
Natural Resources Wales
PepsiCo
Project Outcomes
Thanks to this modernised process and a highly collaborative approach with the main contractor and third-party inspectors, SPG achieved:
40% reduction in project costs
99% reduction in hazardous waste generation
50% shorter project timeline
Increased capacity for annual EA refurbishments
Greater weather flexibility and lower environmental risk
These measurable gains have positioned RPR and MCPU as a future-forward solution for steel structure maintenance.
Client Feedback & Future Impact
The success of the Irthlingborough Lock project has prompted the Environment Agency to explore wider adoption of this process across its infrastructure network. The benefits in sustainability, cost, and efficiency align closely with the agency’s long-term operational goals.
SPG Services Delivered
RPR Heat Induction Coating Removal
Mechanical Surface Preparation
Moisture-Cured Protective Coatings
Third-Party Inspection Coordination
Project Management and Environmental Compliance
Sustainable Waste Reduction Practices
Visual Results
A refreshed series of site images captures the dramatic transformation of the sluice gates from corroded steelwork to a resilient, high-performance coated finish. The durability and appearance of the end result underline SPG’s commitment to delivering long-lasting, visually effective infrastructure solutions—even in challenging weather conditions.
