A project to refurbish a number of historic limekilns along the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal was recognised at the 2017 Living Waterways Awards ceremony, held in Birmingham on the 27th September 2017. The Awards seek to recognise the most exciting and inspiring waterway-based improvement projects across the UK each year.

The project, run by the Canal & River Trust, the charity that cares for the canal, came runner-up in the ‘Restoration and Historic Environment’ category. It focussed on the conservation of three significant lime kilns at Watton, Goytre and Llangattock, as well as improving two large ranges of kilns close to the canal at Talybont and Gilwern.

Part of a chain extending along 30 miles of the waterway, heritage repairs to these massive structures were carried out with the help of volunteers, and included vegetation removal and lime mortar pointing. Using historic images, a leaflet, interpretive benches and picnic area, a heritage trail has been created that tells the story of the lime industry and its inter-connection with the canal.

David Morgan, Canal & River Trust development & engagement manager, said: “We’re delighted that the project, and the Mon & Brec Canal, has been recognised by the Awards. It’s a testament to massive amount of work that went into preserving the historic lime kilns, which are a hugely significant part of the 200-year old history of the canal. A particular thanks has to gone to the dedicated volunteers who put in countless hours to make the project a success. The Mon & Brec Canal is one of the most popular attractions in the Brecon Beacons national park, and we hope the new heritage trail will be a great addition and attraction for visitors in the future.”

The Living Waterways Awards are sponsored by Kier, Arcadis, CPC Civils, Land & Water, Vinci and Fountains, and are assessed by an independent panel of experts.

Further details of the 2017 Living Waterways Awards can be found here.

More details about the Lime kiln project is available here.

Find out more about the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal here.