Elan aqueduct

Elan Aqueduct - geograph.org.uk - 1191323

Elan Aqueduct

The Elan Aqueduct is a significant water supply system in Wales, designed to transport water from the Elan Valley reservoirs to the city of Birmingham. The aqueduct was constructed in the early 20th century and remains a crucial infrastructure for the region.

History

The Elan Aqueduct was commissioned by the Birmingham Corporation Water Department to address the growing water needs of Birmingham during the industrial expansion of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The construction began in 1896 and was completed in 1904. The project was part of a larger scheme that included the creation of the Elan Valley Reservoirs.

Construction

The aqueduct spans approximately 73 miles (117 kilometers) and utilizes a combination of tunnels, pipelines, and viaducts to transport water. The engineering design was led by James Mansergh, a prominent civil engineer of the time. The aqueduct's route was carefully planned to take advantage of gravity, minimizing the need for pumping stations.

Route

The Elan Aqueduct begins at the Caban Coch Reservoir in the Elan Valley and travels through the Cambrian Mountains, passing near towns such as Rhayader and Knighton. It continues through the Shropshire Hills and into the West Midlands, finally reaching the Frankley Reservoir in Birmingham.

Significance

The Elan Aqueduct is notable for its engineering achievements and its role in providing a reliable water supply to Birmingham. It is an example of early 20th-century civil engineering and remains in use today, supplying millions of gallons of water daily.

Maintenance and Upgrades

Over the years, the aqueduct has undergone various maintenance and upgrade projects to ensure its continued operation. These efforts have included the reinforcement of tunnels, replacement of aging pipes, and the implementation of modern monitoring systems.

See Also

• Elan Valley Reservoirs
• Birmingham Corporation Water Department
• James Mansergh
• Frankley Reservoir
• Cambrian Mountains
• Shropshire Hills