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Canal challenge for students

12th Oct 2005

On Monday 10 October, students in London were given the opportunity to work with British Waterways engineers at the Museum of the Docklands.

Engineers from BW and Halcrow spent the morning assisting civil engineering students constructing a 1:4 scale canal bridge, with a slight twist. They had the challenge of using only traditional techniques and materials.

The navigation authority has over 3,000 designated examples of industrial heritage and engineering nationwide with 62 of their listed structures located in the capital.

Some of the better-known historic structures in London include: the Hanwell Lock Flight and Brunel’s Three Bridges on the Grand Union Canal in Ealing; the Interchange Building on the Regent’s Canal in Camden; the Maida Vale and Islington tunnels on the Regent’s Canal; Three Mills on the River Lee in Bow and the gazebos on the River Lee in Ware.

At every turn London’s canals and rivers give clues to their industrial past with features like towing line marks, mileposts, warehouses and toll houses and large stretches of waterway are designated as conservation areas.

Mike Manuel, environment & heritage manager for British Waterways London, explained: “People like Telford, Brunel and Brindley, the civil engineers of the canal-age, were the superstars of their day, pioneering construction techniques which later made the development of the railways possible. Today, this historic legacy works much as it has done for the last 200 years, and will continue into the future with the skills of our engineers and the interest of all those who enjoy Britain’s canal heritage.”

“London’s waterways attract 16 million visits each year. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s industrial past, provide green corridors that contribute to Londoners’ quality of life and are a focus for tourism and regeneration.”

Last updated: 22/10/2008