Montgomery Canal, Historic waterway in eastern Powys, Wales
The Montgomery Canal is a waterway that extends across a considerable distance through the region, connecting several settlements and border areas. The route from Frankton Junction to Newtown passes through Llanymynech and Welshpool, with different sections in various states of restoration.
The canal received parliamentary approval in 1794 and took about 25 years to complete, designed to carry limestone and coal across the landscape. Traffic declined over time, and the lock closed in 1944, leaving the waterway unused for decades until restoration efforts began.
The waterway once moved goods that built the region's economy, with limestone and coal traveling its length to fuel growth. Today, local people work to restore it as a way to reconnect with their heritage and bring the landscape back to life.
The open sections allow walks along the water's edge and wildlife watching in a quiet setting. Wear proper footwear since the paths can be slippery during wet months.
More than 100 structures line the canal, including a notable aqueduct crossing and a historic kiln that still displays its original chimney. These features show the engineering skill of the period and serve as important witnesses to industrial heritage.
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