Almond Feeder Aqueduct: Temporary Closure

The Almond Feeder is an open channel, almost 2.5 miles long, punctuated by four masonry tunnels and a 200-year-old, cast-iron aqueduct, which carries the feeder over the River Almond through a slender, 1-metre-deep trough. 

While appearing to be an insignificant feature in the landscape, the feeder plays a crucial role in controlling flows of water in the Union Canal through the City of Edinburgh. In fact, the feeder is the canal’s sole supply of water, which it takes from Cobbinshaw Reservoir in the West Lothian hills.

To ensure a safe and controlled flow of water, we conduct regular inspections of the feeder’s embankments, masonry and iron structures. A recent inspection revealed that the cast-iron aqueduct shows evidence of defects and requires a full structural assessment.