Dundas Aqueduct

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Dundas Aqueduct.

Dundas Aqueduct (the narrow section of canal in the picture) taken from the western end

The Dundas Aqueduct from the eastern end. The canal boat in the picture can turn left to moorings on the only remaining section of the Somerset Coal Canal or turn right to traverse the last few miles of the canal into the city of Bath. The walls of the Aqueduct can be seen on left and right, the river and railway are unseen far below.

Dundas Aqueduct (grid reference ST784625) carries the Kennet and Avon Canal over the River Avon and the Bath to Westbury railway line, near Limpley Stoke in Wiltshire, England.

It was built by John Rennie and chief engineer John Thomas, between 1797 and 1801 and completed in 1805. It is named after Charles Dundas, the first chairman of the Kennet and Avon Canal Company. The aqueduct is 150 yards long with three arches built of Bath Stone, with Doric pilasters, and balustrades at each end.^[1] The central semicircular arch spans 64ft; the two oval side arches span 20ft.^[2] It is a grade I listed building,^[3] and was the first canal structure to be designated as an ancient monument in 1951.

Over many years leaks had developed and it was closed in 1954. The aqueduct was relined, with polythene and concrete and restored, reopening in 1984.^[4] Care was taken not to disturb a colony of bats living under the aqueduct.^[5]

The aqueduct is also the junction between the Kennet and Avon Canal and the largely derelict Somerset Coal Canal. The short stretch of the Somerset Coal Canal still with water in it forms Brassknocker Basin, used for boat moorings, cycle hire and a cafe.^[6] and is next to Dundas Wharf where the small tollhouse, warehouse and crane still stand. Renovation work is being conducted on the wharf.^[7]

[edit] References

[edit] See also

• Locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal