Newlay Weir on the River Aire is the focus of Mark Stevenson’s latest in a series of posts shining a spotlight on the 18 buildings or monuments at risk in West Leeds.
This Weir is just downstream from Newlay Bridge and was built around 1690 to provide more power to Kirkstall Forge.
The building of this Weir not only increased water flow to the Forge but also flooded the Ford nearby.
It was forever blocking up and work at the Forge was hit as a consequence. Workmen from the Forge were paid at a reduced rate to clear the Forge in 1796. They were paid 10p a day, plus free food and beer.
The Dispatch reported on how Newlay Bridge has been closed this week due to essential maintenance work – and there are also plans for a fish pass to be installed at the weir.