Sydney Wharf Bridge and Retaining Walls (MLN110622)

Sydney Wharf Bridge and Retaining Walls comprise a bridge and substantial retaining walls built in the 18th century as part of the Kennet and Avon Canal. The 30ft (12m) Sydney Wharf Bridge has a semi-elliptical arch form, topped by a parapet with a simple, bold string course and coping. The bridge's abutments are integrated with the adjacent cutting retaining walls.

The retaining walls extend northwards to Sydney Road Bridge and southwards to the entrance of the Bathwick Covered Way. These walls are 6 to 8m tall, sloping downwards from north to south, with curved faces. They are divided by a plinth supporting pilaster buttresses, a string course and a coped parapet; all the mouldings are characterised by their boldness and simplicity. Sections of the eastern (Down) retaining wall have been refurbished using purple engineering brick, meticulously replicating the original decorative details. The retaining walls are constructed with Bath stone ashlar, with engineering brick used in some sections.