Gladstone Dock, Liverpool
One of the Liverpool Docks
The large Gladstone Graving Dock was opened in 1913. It superseded Hornby Dock as the most northerly of the Liverpool Docks.
The construction of the cargo docks was delayed by World War I.
1924 Description of new dock system [1].
The work included the widest hinged gates in the world, constructed by Armstrong, Whitworth and Co. 'They have a span of 136 ft. and a greater leaf area than any other gates in this country. For purposes of comparison, it may be mentioned that the Panama Canal gates are greater in depth, but have a span of 110 ft. only. ... The Swinging weight of one leaf is 495.55 tons. It is of special interest to note that no rollers are provided on these gates. This departure from previous practice on the Mersey, which is due to Mr. Newell, was determined on owing to the effect upon wear and upkeep, which has been found to take place when rollers are used.'[2].
The extended Gladstone Docks were officially opened in July 1927.