Bridge 95, Oxford Canal, Braunston, Northamptonshire - Arch Bridges on Waymarking.com

This bridge, situated just to the west of the Oxford/Grand Union canal junction at Braunston is made up of two bridges built together. The western section is a normal occupation bridge between fields on either side of the canal, whilst the eastern section is a 'turnover bridge' built with low walls on the outer, canal, side with rounded parapets. The idea was to allow the barge horses to cross the canal from one tow path to the other without having to be uncoupled from the barge being towed, and to minimise the wear on the towing rope. The tow path on the southern side of the canal is a continuation of that on the Grand Union coming north from London whilst the tow path on the north side is the continuation of that on the southbound North Oxford now heading towards Napton junction. The original Oxford canal was of the contour type which was the cheapest to build and could only handle single boats in the locks. When the Grand Union from London reached Braunston it was decided to widen the Oxford towards Napton Junction which would allow wider freight boats to use it to Birmingham. The widening also involved straightening and building through cuttings and over embankments, resulting in shortening the distance by considerable amounts, some 13 miles saved in an old distance of 26 miles. This was done in the 1830s. The junction of the Oxford with the Grand Union was also moved to its present position at this time, the old junction being marked by the Horseley Iron Works bridge over the entrance to the modern marina some 600m to the east. It is possible to trace the old course of the canal over the fields towards Wolfhampcote and further west.

Length of bridge: 17m Height of bridge: 5.5m What type of traffic does this bridge support?: Walkers and farm traffic. Previous use - horses towing barges. What kind of gap does this bridge cross?: The widened Oxford Canal. Date constructed: 1830s Is the bridge still in service for its original purpose?: No horses turning over now but occupation section still in use. Name of road or trail the bridge services: Occupation farm road Location: Braunston, Northamptonshire

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