LYDNEY HARBOUR AREA
From Roman times through the industrial revolution and well into the 20th century Lydney Harbour has been a cornerstone of the River Severn’s heritage. The Severn Estuary is one of the UK’s national heritage jewels, known the world over for its massive tidal range and internationally important habitat, but even more so for its history of exporting and as one of the UK’s principle sea links to the rest of the world.*
Feeding the harbour is a one-mile canal in which runs inland from the River Severn to Lydney. It was opened in 1813 to trans-ship iron and coal from the Forest of Dean. It was once connected by a horse drawn tramroad to Pidock's Canal which brought materials down to the wharves by tub-boat.
In the 1960s imported wood was still being brought in by barge from Avonmaouth. It remained in commercial use until the 1980s. The entrance to the canal consists of an outer tidal gate opening into a wide basin. From there a lock opens into the one-mile canal cut. Immediately above the lock, a pair of gates point the other way as protection against a high tidal flood in the estuary. There is one swing bridge crossing the canal. The docks have recently been restored to create a marina and harbour area for seagoing yachts and motor boats.
Feeding the harbour is a one-mile canal in which runs inland from the River Severn to Lydney. It was opened in 1813 to trans-ship iron and coal from the Forest of Dean. It was once connected by a horse drawn tramroad to Pidock's Canal which brought materials down to the wharves by tub-boat.
In the 1960s imported wood was still being brought in by barge from Avonmaouth. It remained in commercial use until the 1980s. The entrance to the canal consists of an outer tidal gate opening into a wide basin. From there a lock opens into the one-mile canal cut. Immediately above the lock, a pair of gates point the other way as protection against a high tidal flood in the estuary. There is one swing bridge crossing the canal. The docks have recently been restored to create a marina and harbour area for seagoing yachts and motor boats.
In 2019 The Lydney Coastal Community Team (LCCT) have been successful in their bid for £2.1M from the Government’s Coastal Communities Fund. The fund helps to develop and improve local attractions, create jobs and promote socio-economic growth in Coastal Communities. The money will be used to enhance Lydney Harbour and surrounding areas.
