Heybridge Basin |
|
Hover over the image for an enlargement |
|
This image is available to buy in the following sizes
(Prices include international shipping) |
10x30 cm (4x12 in) £16
21x63 cm (8x25 in) £28
33x99 cm (13x39 in) £46
|
|
Heybridge Basin in Essex is the start of the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation where the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation Canal merges into the tidal Blackwater Estuary, fed by the rivers Blackwater and Chelmer, the two rivers are joined by a lock. Construction of the 13 mile canal to Chelmsford commenced in 1793 under the general direction of John Rennie. The Heybridge basin was dug out at the sea end of the navigation to allow lighters to enter the canal via the sea lock for the unloading of their cargos for transportation inland. The stretch of canal between the Basin and Beeleigh was cut out by hand to bypass Maldon because the town opposed the building of the canal fearing loss of trade in the port. In 1796 the first ship entered the basin with a cargo of coal for Chelmsford. Heybridge Basin was originally a Neolithic settlement made up of 2 huts and a ditch. Heybridge village has continued to expand despite the cessation of commercial activities on the canal due to the excellent sailing facilities on the River Blackwater.
|
|
