Instead of easing the handling by dividing the hatch, which will itself introduce a leak prolem, I can recomment fitting a handle on the top edge.
I used two Standard Horizon plotter handles, obtained as spares mounted with socket screws on the top enge. Because the panel is now much more secure when lifted and is easier to swing around, it doesn't feel so cumbersome as it did before. Also it is much easier to lift out of and return to the stowage rack in our stbd aft cabin.
Steve Cronin