URPoint Details
Wilton Water (or Wide Waters) is a small reservoir, southwest of the village of Great Bedwyn, which supplies the summit pound of the Kennet and Avon Canal with water. The reservoir and collects rainfall from the eastern end of the Vale of Pewsey and the surrounding hills. It was created between 1794 and 1810, by damming a narrow branching valley, fed by natural springs. In addition to providing water for the canal, which is pumped by Crofton Pumping Station, it provides a haven for wildlife. It has been stocked with rainbow trout. When the canal was built, there were no reliable water sources available to fill the summit by normal gravitational means. However a set of usable springs were found adjacent to the canal route about one mile (2 km) east of the summit pound, and about 40 feet (12 m) below it. Arrangements were made for the springs to feed the pound below lock 60 at Crofton Locks. The reservoir outfall and sluices are designated as a Grade II listed building
Further information from Wikipedia.org
- Type:
- Landmark