Shropshire Union Canal South West Entrance To Berwick Tunnel

The south-west entrance to Berwick Tunnel is a canal tunnel entrance dated 1797, possibly designed by Josiah Clowes or Thomas Telford. It is constructed from dressed red sandstone with ashlar dressings. The entrance features a parabolic arch with chamfered voussoirs and a triple keystone, along with curved retaining walls, a string course, a central square datestone, and a coped parapet that is raised at the center. The square end piers are also coped. The arch was bricked up in the late 20th century. Berwick Tunnel, which is 970 yards long, was notable for being the first canal tunnel to include a towpath from the outset. This towpath, suggested by William Reynolds, was made of wood, approximately 3 feet wide, and rested on bearers set into the wall. This design allowed the full width of the tunnel to be filled with water, reducing resistance for boats. The Shrewsbury branch of the Shropshire Union Canal began construction in 1793 under engineer Josiah Clowes, who was later succeeded by Thomas Telford after William Reynolds' death in February 1795. The canal was officially opened in February 1797.