The £500,000 project includes extensive repairs to the three masonry arches and repointing of the stonework by using traditional lime mortar. Other works include the reconstruction of part of the aqueduct parapet which has been vandalised and removal of weeds and shrubs which has encroached the structure over many years.
Dating back to c1798, the aqueduct was designed by Benjamin Outram one of the country's most revered civil engineers. The aqueduct is situated at Portland Basin at the junction of the Ashton Canal and Peak Forest Canal and was a key route for the transportation of coal and cotton into Manchester.
Heritage landmark
Andy Johnson, senior project manager, said:
“Tame Aqueduct is a beautiful aqueduct which is looking a little worn out. It was covered in vegetation and over time it has been vandalised causing part of the parapet to fall into the river below. We're carrying out repairs to the parts of the aqueduct that are in a particularly bad condition using traditional heritage techniques. This will ensure that Tame Aqueduct continues to be a heritage landmark for the local community and visitors to enjoy.”
