The Grade-II Listed Aberbechan Aqueduct carries the canal over Bechan Brook, a tributary of the River Severn, and is vital for supplying water to the south of the canal from the Severn.
Made up of three arches, the aqueduct features unusual stone cutwaters which help to deflect debris and allow water to flow underneath smoothly. Over the years, river flooding and leaks from the canal have taken their toll on the ageing structure.
A substantial grant from Cadw and our funding meant the essential repairs could take place, with work starting in July and finishing in October. After the trough of the aqueduct was drained, repairs were made to the bed of the canal which showed large voids where water was being lost from the aqueduct. Brickwork repairs have also been carried out on both piers and abutments.
Still playing a vital role
Mark Evans, our regional director for Wales & South West, commented: "Aberbechan Aqueduct was completed in 1821 and still plays a vital role in supplying water for the Montgomery Canal. These extensive masonry repairs will secure the stability of the aqueduct for years to come and remove the structure from the Buildings at Risk register. Our charity is committed to preserving the amazing heritage of the canals in Wales, keeping them open and alive, and this is a tremendous result.
"The Montgomery Canal is also a haven for wildlife, and we’ve taken this chance to preserve and improve these habitats. Our ecologists removed large amounts of the invasive Himalayan Balsam from the site and made sure no protected species were disturbed. The project will bring about several biodiversity enhancements, while the continuing water flow along the canal will ensure habitat for rare wetland wildlife is maintained.”
