Ennerdale Weir, Egremont, Cumbria - Desk-based Assessment

The Environment Agency have proposed the removal of the weir at Ennerdale Mill, south of Egremont in Cumbria, as it is showing signs of failure. OA North was commissioned to undertake a desk-based assessment to try to determine the origin of the weir and to assess its significance based on its historic background, and its context in realtion to other weirs in the locality. This was carried out from September to December 2011.
The Ennerdale Paper Mill and associated weir were contstructed in the 1750s and 60s. The mill site utilised a natural bend in the river, with the weir being built at the north end of the bed, and the mill buildings to the south.