User:MIDI/Drafts/Biss Aqueduct

The Biss Aqueduct is a navigable aqueduct on the Kennet and Avon Canal, carrying the waterway over the River Biss near Hilperton in Wiltshire. It has been described as being overshadowed by the much grander nearby Avoncliff and Dundas Aqueducts.

History
The aqueduct was built between 1796 and 1798, at the same time as the rest of the waterway. Comprising a single arch in the classical style, it was built of ashlar. Much like the Avoncliff Aqueduct, Biss Aqueduct was initially constructed of poor quality local stone; the canal company had established a quarry at Conkwell in 1801 and another soon thereafter in Winsley. John Rennie had voiced his concerns about the stone to the canal company, and wrote to them to say that was in favour of using brick rather than limestone. He reported that the company had sustained great losses from the "badness of the stone" and implored them to reconsider the general use of brick. The aqueduct was subsequently rebuilt in 1803 (before the canal had fully opened) of Bathampton stone.

Joseph Priestly wrote that the aqueduct is of the same dimensions as the one at Semington—the span being 30 ft wide. The embankments approaching the aqueduct are up to 30 ft high.

Legacy
The aqueduct was given Grade II listed status in 1976. The aqueduct has been described as being overshadowed by the much grander nearby Avoncliff and Dundas Aqueducts, although it is likely it would have been considered individual or stylish if it was on a different waterway. Aside from drawing comparison to the other aqueducts on the canal, the one at Biss has been identified as an example of fine classical architecture.