News & Media > Waterways Services
04:01:2012
Aqueduct being restored to former glory
The works will also underpin the structural integrity of the aqueduct, which carries the picturesque Lancaster Canal over the River Lune, for decades to come.
The aqueduct, built by the renowned architect John Rennie, is currently undergoing a facelift that includes a new visitors' car park, a woodland trail, new access paths for cyclists, prams and wheelchairs, and new information boards.
May Gurney is currently on site carrying out the work, on behalf of British Waterways, which will see the Georgian masterpiece returned to its former glory with the removal of trees, bushes and vegetation that have obscured the aqueduct from view for many years.
Specialist stonemasons have been abseiling 53 feet off the Lune Aqueduct to remove vegetation and graffiti from the 200-year-old structure.
Damaged stone balustrades are also being replaced, and community and school activities are being planned for next year when the work is complete.
Work to repair the canal channel and stop leaks has already been carried out.
A gently sloping path leading onto the aqueduct has also been created, as a public consultation into the proposed works found access to be a big problem.
Information boards will depict the history of the aqueduct and the diversity of wildlife in the area.
Helen Hall, from British Waterways, said: “We just want to encourage more people to come and visit the aqueduct, to come and walk around the area.
“It's a beautiful spot and a great national asset, and by carrying out these works we're returning the Lune Aqueduct to its former glory.”
