KEIGHLEY Men's Forum learned about the history of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.
Colin Thunhurst outlined the development of the waterway, focussing on West Yorkshire.
He said that in 1776 a Bingley to Skipton canal had been built specifically to carry limestone rock from quarries, for rebuilding work in Bradford.
In 1819 consideration was given to a link canal into Keighley, but it would've involved the building of an aqueduct across the River Aire at a cost of £6,000 and the scheme was rejected as too expensive.
Keighley was referred to again in 1952 when a breach occurred.
Mr Thunhurst said canals were now mainly used for leisure purposes, and heritage societies were helping to keep them working.
Forum president Dave W Smith gave thanks.
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