Dorset and Somerset Canal
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Dorset and Somerset Canal was a proposed canal in the south west of England. The main line was intended to link Poole, in Dorset with the Kennet and Avon Canal near Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire. A branch was to go from the main line at Frome to the southern reaches of the Somerset coalfield at Nettlebridge.
Contents |
[edit] Construction
Construction began on the branch line in order to capitalise on the lucrative markets in the coal fields and the clothing industry in Frome. It was to incorporate novel balance locks to move boats up and down a hillside near Buckland Dinham, where the Murtry Aqueduct remains.[1] The balance lock was designed by James Fussell,[2] owner of the nearby Mells ironworks, and patented in 1798. One balance lock was successfully tested on 13 October 1800.[3] Construction ceased in 1803 due to unforeseen costs and the canal was never completed.[4]
[edit] The canal today
Several features are still visible including an aqueduct at Coleford[5] known locally as the Hucky Duck.
| Point | Coordinates (Links to map resources) |
OS Grid Ref | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western end | ST665487 | ||
| Edford Bridge | ST668489 | ||
| Coleford Aqueduct | ST685488 | ||
| Vobster Bridge | ST707494 | ||
| Conduit Bridge | ST730506 | ||
| Trial balance lock | ST740500 | ||
| Murtry Aqueduct | ST762498 | ||
| Whatcombe Wall | ST771494 |
[edit] References
- ^ Murtry Aqueduct. Images of England. Retrieved on 2006-11-25.
- ^ Atthill, Robin (1964). Old Mendip. Newton Abbott: David and Charles. ISBN 0715351710.
- ^ Toulson, Shirley (1984). The Mendip Hills: A Threatened Landscape. London: Victor Gollancz. ISBN 057503453X.
- ^ Dunning, Robert (1983). A History of Somerset. Chichester: Phillimore & Co. ISBN 0-85033-461-6.
- ^ Former Aqueduct. Images of England. Retrieved on 2006-11-11.
[edit] See also
- Canals of Great Britain
- History of the British canal system
- James Fussell, canal promoter
