Arch Bridge 57 On The Rochdale Canal – Smithy Bridge, UK - Stone Bridges on Waymarking.com

The Canal History
The Rochdale Canal was completed in 1804 and is one of three canals that cross the Pennine hills. This is the only one that doesn’t use tunnels. In addition it was a broad canal with bridges and locks that allowed boats of 14 feet width to pass through.

Competition from railways and roads subsequently led to a decline in goods being carried and by 1937 the only section left in operation was at the Manchester end of the canal.

In 1965 there was talk of abandoning the canal but by this time leisure boating had become very popular in the UK and there was a campaign to keep it open. Work was started to repair the canal and the whole length finally reopened in September 2007. As well as leisure boats, the canal attracts lots of walkers and cyclists along the tow path.

Details of this bridge
Bridge 57 is also known as Coppy Bridge and became an English Heritage Grade II listed building on 12th February 1985. According to the listing “it was built between 1794 and 1804 and William Jessop was the engineer.

It also states that it is an elliptical keystone arch with stone band and coped parapet.”

Physical Location (city, county, etc.): Rochdale, Greater Manchester Road, Highway, Street, etc.: Coppy Bridge Drive Water or other terrain spanned: The Rochdale Canal Architect/Builder: William Jessop Construction Date: between 1794 and 1804

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