Marple Locks Number 2 And Adjoining Footbridge On Peak Forest Canal

Marple Locks Number 2 and the adjoining footbridge are located on the Peak Forest Canal and were constructed between 1803 and 1805. The engineers for this project were Benjamin Outram and Thomas Brown, with financing from S. Oldknow and R. Arkwright, and the construction was carried out by James and Fox. The lock features dressed stone and ashlar, with a single upper gate and a double lower gate, along with a footbridge at the lower end. The lock has a 4-meter pound-to-pound level to accommodate the steepness of the slope. The lock walls are made of large coursed stone blocks with rounded verges, some of which have been replaced and exhibit finely worked arises. The gates have been overhauled and are fully functional. The footbridge features a segmental, rusticated keystone arch, an ashlar band, and parapet walls with rounded copings. One end of the footbridge is terminated by a battered square pier with a small flight of steps, while the other end sweeps down to the level of the pound.