Cory Environmental Trust in Britain (CETB) is funding much needed repairs to an 18th century stone weir on the banks of River Clywedog in Plas Power Woods near Wrexham. The listed structure played an important role in the industrial revolution but requires extensive repairs to avoid further deterioration.
Cory Environmental Trust in Britain (CETB), the environmental body of waste management company Cory Environmental, has contributed £62,020 for repairs, which will be carried out by local craftspeople from Ruthin. The money will also fund repairs to the Victorian railings which form a boundary around the woods, and work to control the spread of destructive weeds such as the Japanese Knotweed.
Malcolm Ward, Chief Executive of Cory Environmental and Chairman of Cory Environmental Trust in Britain, said:
“The Trust is committed to funding projects that bring about maximum benefit to the community in the vicinity of Cory’s landfill sites. Plas Power Woods combines a fascinating industrial heritage with a beautiful environment and we are delighted that, through this project, local people will gain access to and have an increased knowledge about such a fascinating site.”
The weir is an important keystone in Wrexham’s history as well as being a town beauty spot. 250 years ago iron master Issac Wilkinson built the weir on the River Clywedog to supply water to his iron works and the nearby mine. Later on, his son, “Iron Mad Wilkinson” pioneered the smooth boring of cannons and cylinders, which paved the way for Watt’s steam engine.
Nowadays the weir is valued more for its beauty, forming part of the beautiful Plas Power Woods. The ancient woodland contains several other historical features, some of significant importance, which are under the care of The Woodland Trust, Coed Cadw. The Woodland Trust will be managing the working area of the 12 week long repairs and Plas Power Woods are expected to remain open throughout.
Ian Craven, Hafod Quarry Landfill Manager, Cory Environmental said:
“Plas Power Woods are a wonderful asset for the local community, not just a favourite local beauty spot and wildlife haven but also a life-size historical archive revealing so much about the area’s pioneering industrial past. We are delighted to be able to help the Woodland Trust in looking after this beautiful place and restoring its industrial heritage.”
CETB is funded with landfill tax credits, which are raised by Cory Environmental, the operator managing the restoration of Hafod Quarry on the Bangor Road, Wrexham.
Projects eligible for landfill tax funding include the restoration of historic buildings, refurbishment of community and sports centres, the improvement of public gardens and play areas and the enhancement of woodland, riverside and other wildlife habitats.
