A notice by the aqueduct explained why it was drained: apparently it was found to be weak, so the lack of water relieves some weight. The towpath is taken over a temporary scaffolding-and-plank structure. I'm not sure how that helps, though, as it appears to be resting on the aqueduct.
Isn't draining an iron trunk aqueduct almost the worst thing you can do? Look at the rust starting to eat away at the side. Under water, as long as there's no oxygen, rust cannot form. How much longer will this survive?
As Captain Ahab notes in his UK aqueducts list the plughole is impressive.
I had imagined the bed of an iron trunk to be perfectly smooth. Are the ribs for strength, or is that just the way the trunk is assembled?
2 comments:
What a shame. Are there any plans to restore it? As you say, left under water, it would have a better chance of survival.
I would guess those ribs are for strength, a bit like an old iron riveted boat.
VallyP, there are many people who would like to see the entire Cromford Canal restored. This section is owned by Derbyshire County Council (I should have mentioned that in the main post) but I don't know what's happening at the moment.
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