Former Aqueduct At Ngr St68474874

The former aqueduct, built between 1800 and 1801 for the Dorset and Somerset Canal, is constructed from coursed masonry blocks with furrowed dressings, although much of the ashlar has been removed. It features two semi-circular arches that are approximately 10 meters wide and slightly less in height. The approach abutments have curved revetment walls that splay back from each side of the bed of the former canal. The parapets, canal trough, and tow path are missing, but the arches have keys and the masonry is coursed throughout. Most of the masonry remains on the north-east and south-west revetments, with one pilaster buttress on the former and two on the latter. The aqueduct crosses a pathway or drive and a stream. The Dorset and Somerset Canal was designed to connect the Kennet and Avon Canal to the River Stour in Dorset, as established by an Act of Parliament in 1796. This section of the canal was intended to carry it down the valley from the Nettlebridge collieries but was abandoned in 1803 due to financial issues. An inscribed stone, possibly from the aqueduct, is believed to survive in the village of Chantry, reading: "Aqueduct Ere Anno 1801." The structure is noted to be in a poor state of repair as of June 1985.