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.
![newlay weir 1](https://westleedsdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/newlay-weir-1-300x225.jpg)
This Weir is just downstream from Newlay Bridge and was built around 1690 to provide more power to Kirkstall Forge.
![](https://westleedsdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/newlay-weir-2-300x225.jpg)
The building of this Weir not only increased water flow to the Forge but also flooded the Ford nearby.
![newlay weir 3](https://westleedsdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/newlay-weir-3-300x200.jpg)
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.