Fascinating Aldersley Junction

Thursday, 11 March 2010 16:45

Aldersley Junction - where the BCN and the Staffs and Worcs Canal meet

I mentioned Aldersley Junction in yesterday's blog. We were impressed with the work that has been done there. The features of this canal junction have been made more obvious.

Junction sign post

The corner of the Junction with the Staffs and Worcs has a tunnel-like opening. I wonder if this links with the tunnels on the far side of Aldersley Bridge?

Corner of Aldersely Junction

The railings and wall of the footpath that runs on a high level from the Junction to the bridge have been exposed. Once this was all covered in bushes, but it now leads the eye to Aldersley Bridge. Some steps and another tunnel-like structure have been revealed too.

Railings and wall

Aldersley Bridge is a roving or turnover bridge, allowing horses from the working boats to cross from the towpath on the Staffs and Worcs to the Junction and stables that were the other side of the bridge.

Aldersley Bridge

The remains of a wharf, stables and office buildings have also been carefully preserved. The Canals and Industry (click on the link) website explains the use and detail of this area, including a sketch of how it must have looked when in use.

Remains of wharf and buildings

The wall is the remains of a lodging house (with stables below) offering overnight stays to the men from the working boats and their families. The corner by the bridge tunnel may have been small coal fired ovens.

It is wonderful to see such a gem - a good example of preservation of canal heritage.