Atkins, the world's fourth largest design firm, has successfully completed the restoration of the former Tyn Yr Heol Lock, Tonna, which lies within the Dulais Valley.

The newly restored lock, approximately 1km north of Neath, was officially opened by Val Lloyd, Assembly Member for Swansea East with the help of local school children who built models of the first crafts to use the lock since the 1930s.

The aim of the project was to provide navigational access to the Neath and Tennant Canals and provide access to Aberdulais aqueduct.

The objective of the restoration work to Tyn Yr Heol Lock is to promote the Neath Canal as a recreational area for visitors and the local community.

The masonry lock, which lay in a state of disrepair, has been restored using traditional lime mortar and grouts.

The work included the provision of new lock gates and sluices and the repair and consolidation of lock walls and associated masonry.

Under the umbrella of strategic plans, the restoration added value to new and existing projects and initiatives and provided environmental improvements to the area.

At a regional level, the project will bring the vision of a usable canal network and flagship tourism product closer. At a local level, it will enhance the environment of a popular local amenity and potential focal point for visitors to the area. Atkins water and environment director Arthur Bleasdale said: "The aim of the restoration was to reopen a 12 mile length of canal for recreational use. "The project will improve the natural environment around the canal, increasing biodiversity and encouraging people to enjoy the surrounding fascinating and historic area."