NEATH PORT TALBOT COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL LOCAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (2011-2026) EXAMINATION IN PUBLIC: Matter 10: Culture & Heritage Action Point 2 The Council to seek clarification on the 10 obstructions to the canal network mentioned by Gareth Hughes of the Neath & Tennant Canal Trust, and provide a brief position statement and location plan outlining the nature, significance and location of each obstruction. Council’s Response NEATH CANAL [1] Former Glynneath Terminus to Manor Drive: Canal largely infilled, no towpath, line of canal obliterated for significant stretches by former A465 (T) dual carriageway embankment and B4242 re-alignment at Lamb and Flag Public House. (Obstruction 1). Road re-alignments and construction works a major obstacle to restoration. [2] Manor Drive to Ysgwrfa Bridge: Canal extant but narrowed by B4242 improvements / re-alignments in places. Two lock chambers extant. Towpath evident as grass verge. Navigation obstructed by low access bridge to Aberpergwm Colliery (Obstruction 2). Replacement lifting bridge or similar solution required. [3] Ysgwrfa Bridge: Canal crossed and severed / obstructed by re-aligned and widened B4242. (Obstruction 3). Significant highway reconstruction, new canal crossing and new / reconstructed canal section needed. [4] Commercial Street, Resolven: Navigation obstructed by road embankment / culverts. (Obstruction 4). New canal crossing / bridge required. [5] Abergarwed: Length of canal infilled / no towpath. (Obstruction 5). Reconstruction of section of canal required (approx 50m). [6] Bridge Street, Neath: Bridge lowered to approx 200mm headroom. (Obstruction 6). Replacement lifting bridge or similar solution required with complications due to proximity of railway bridge and road junction. [7] Green Street / Canalside Bridge: Reduced headroom. (Obstruction 7). Replacement / modification of bridge required. [8] Diamond Bridge, Giant’s Grave: Bridge lowered with restricted headroom. (Obstruction 8). Replacement lifting bridge(s) or similar solution would be required if navigation is to be extended any further south. TENNANT CANAL [1] Aberdulais Aqueduct & Lock (Grade II Listed): Disused / derelict. (Obstruction T1). Comprehensive restoration required. [2] Jersey Marine Bridge (B4290): Bridge lowered with limited headroom. (Obstruction T2). Replacement bridge with adequate headroom required. .