Boat lift design wanted

A COMPETITION is being launched by the Grand Western Canal Trust for a design of a lift bridge to replace the former seven lifts on the canal.

The unique lifts on the waterways moved boats 270ft by the seven separate 175 years old structures, each over 40ft high.

The trust is finalising the details of a Design-A-Lift competition to raise awareness of both the waterway's and its unique engineering heritage, and hopes to involve students and young engineers in a bid to create designs for modern lifts suitable to replace the seven 175 years old structures between Taunton to Tiverton.

Trust Chairman Robert Hodgson explained:

"Any reinstatement of the waterway would need new structures and the use of modern materials to maximise the energy and water saving advantages of boat lifts. The Grand Western lifts were way ahead of their time in the 1830s.

"This competition will give young engineers and scientists a chance to explore issues relevant to their future careers and provide the trust with cost-effective options for future restoration work."

For more information contact the Grand Western Canal Trust Secretary, Hugh Dalzell, at 01884-849255.