British Waterways has started unveiling a 200-year old Georgian masterpiece by removing the trees, bushes and years of graffiti which has hidden the Grade I listed Lune Aqueduct in Lancaster from full view.

As part of a £2.4m restoration, specialist contractors will abseil 53 feet from the John Rennie-built Lune Aqueduct to carefully remove years of vegetation which has taken hold and has been undermining the structure’s masonry.

The Lune Aqueduct was the most impressive feature of the Lancaster Canal which was the main conduit for the economic development of Cumbria and Lancashire for over 100 years.  Carrying the canal high above the River Lune, the Aqueduct consists of five stone arches supporting a 600ft stone trough.  It is regarded by many as the singular best piece of John Rennie’s work.

Following the £1 million pound grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) in January 2011 and matched funding from British Waterways and partners, a programme of works to restore the 200-year old aqueduct to its former glory is being undertaken.

The two-year restoration of the Lune Aqueduct which will bring the structure back into full view, includes repairing the canal channel, removing vegetation and graffiti, undertaking re-pointing and masonry repairs and improving public access to this historically significant site.

Clive Mitchell, project manager, British Waterways, said: “It’s incredible to be able to restore the aqueduct and unveil a view which shows it in its full former glory.  The work that we are doing today will safeguard this important piece of local and national heritage for generations to come.”

As part of its annual waterway maintenance programme British Waterways is inviting members of the public to a special open day at the Lune Aqueduct to see first-hand what it takes to keep the 200-year old waterways working.  The open day is being held on Friday 25th November.  Guided tours will provide a unique insight into the £2.4 million restoration.  Spaces are limited and people interested in attending can book at www.waterscape.com/canalopendays.