Barton Swing Aqueduct

Originally this was the site of the first stone arch aqueduct over the River Irwell, built by James Brindley. However, when the River Irwell was canalised to make the Manchester Ship Canal ('Big Ditch'), the aqueduct had to be rebuilt to allow for larger boats to pass underneath. The solution by Sir Edward Leader Williams - unique on the waterways - was to build a swinging aqueduct.

Essentially a metal tank with doors at either end, that is mounted on a central pillar. When required to open, the tank doors and doors to the canal at either end are closed, and then the whole tank, with 800 tons of water, pivots around the central point. The aqueduct can be seen operating daily, usually in late afternoon.

An ambitious project is underway by Steam, Coal & Canal (a partnership of local and national agencies) to create a unique Linear Industrial Heritage Park along the Bridgewater Canal corridor at Eccles with safe paths, picnic areas and landscaping. The project is intended to link together a number of sites of unique importance including the Barton Swing Aqueduct, the underground canals at Worsley Delph and Astley Green Colliery and its steam winding engine. A new visitor centre is being planned at Barton, near the aqueduct.

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