Work underway on historic canal aquaduct near Newtown

Work has begun on the restoration of a key part of the Montgomery Canal near Newtown. 

The Montgomery Waterway Restoration Trust has welcomed the start of vital restoration work on the historic Aberbechan Aqueduct, located two miles from Newtown.

The project forms part of the broader Montgomery Canal Levelling-Up programme, led by Powys County Council in partnership with the Canal & River Trust and supported by Cadw, the Welsh Government's historic environment service.

The restoration initiative focuses on improving the canal infrastructure between the restored section in Shropshire, which is connected to the national canal network, and the isolated Welshpool section north of Refail, near Berriew. Aberbechan Aqueduct, situated six miles south of Berriew, lies within an unrestored stretch of the canal.

Constructed over 200 years ago, the aqueduct dates back to 1819, during the final phase of the canal’s extension to Newtown. Decades of wear and tear have weakened the structure, and the current works aim to reinforce the aqueduct and ensure it is watertight.

“This is quite a significant project on an aqueduct that might appear insignificant at first glance,” said Michael Limbrey, Chairman of the Montgomery Waterway Restoration Trust.

“The aqueduct is actually vitally important for the water supply to half the canal, from Berriew and Welshpool to the lowest section near Arddleen, where it returns to the River Severn. This area is part of a Special Area of Conservation, designated under the European Habitats Directive and now incorporated into UK law.”

Mr Limbrey emphasised the ecological importance of the canal, noting that without restoration efforts, the waterway would become overgrown with weeds, threatening the fragile species that depend on this unique habitat. The project involves substantial investment to protect these delicate ecosystems by ensuring a consistent water supply, which would be jeopardised if the aqueduct were to fail.

Beyond its environmental significance, the Montgomery Canal is renowned for its many historic structures, including the Aberbechan Aqueduct. “The aqueduct carries the towpath, which is a valuable amenity for walking, fishing, cycling, and jogging along the canal. 

"It even serves as a route connecting to the World Heritage Site at Llangollen,” Mr Limbrey noted. 

He also highlighted the importance of the towpath for events like the Montgomery Canal Triathlon, which attracts participants who cycle, canoe, and walk or run from Newtown across the border into Shropshire.

“Restoring this small aqueduct benefits wildlife, preserves a piece of the canal’s heritage, and ensures that visitors and local residents can continue to enjoy the canal’s peace and tranquillity,” Mr Limbrey concluded.

The restoration of Aberbechan Aqueduct is a key step in safeguarding both the natural and cultural heritage of the Montgomery Canal, reaffirming its status as a cherished asset for future generations.