The Lune Aqueduct has been awarded a £1million grant to help restore the 200 year old Grade I listed structure.
The grant by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) will be match funded by British Waterways, to renovate a remarkable engineering structure which carries the picturesque Lancaster Canal over the River Lune.
British Waterways submitted detailed plans to the HLF in September 2010 following two years of studies and surveys.
[pullquote]The Lune Aqueduct is a masterpiece of engineering, and a striking example of the impact the industrial revolution had both on the local landscape and the development of the region
Sara Hilton, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund North West[/pullquote]
Restoration work will also include restoring the historic masonry and brickwork and improving access between the aqueduct and the River Lune.
There are also plans for a lighting scheme.
Funding will also provide for the employment of a full-time project officer on site to oversee the works.
Relining the Lancaster canal
Work is due to commence in January 2011 with construction including relining the canal channel, carrying out leakage repairs and structural embankment works.
The access and improvements works will be completed over the next two years.
Sara Hilton, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund North West, said:
“The Lune Aqueduct is a masterpiece of engineering, and a striking example of the impact the industrial revolution had both on the local landscape and the development of the region. This award from HLF will mean that the historic features of the aqueduct will be conserved, and public access improved so that more people will be able to explore and enjoy this heritage treasure, whilst ensuring it is preserved for future generations.”
British Waterways will be hosting a stoppage open day on 9 February where members of the public are invited to experience a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of repairs to the Lune Aqueduct on the Lancaster Canal. For further information visit www.waterscape.com
Lancaster canal
The UK canal system was key to the industrial revolution, with the Lancaster Canal being the main conduit for the economic development of Cumbria and Lancashire for over 100 years.
The Canal was built during the 1790s with John Rennie being appointed as its Chief Engineer.
Built between 1794-97, and possibly the singular best piece of Rennie’s work, the Lune Aqueduct is the most impressive feature of the whole canal, carrying the canal 15m (50 feet) above the River Lune.
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