canal (section of)

Sluice gate and retaining walls associated with the Royal Canal supply line from Riverstown River to Thomastown Harbour (15402731) to the south, erected c.1805. Now out of use with channel now dry. Comprising timber and steel sluice gates with four timber balance beams. Set in dressed limestone chamber. Machinery now missing. Located to the southwest of Rathwire and to the north of Thomastown Harbour.

An interesting and unassuming feature in the landscape, which forms part of an important group of structures associated with the Royal Canal in Westmeath. This sluice gate was used to supply the Royal Canal (with water from the Riverstown River) to ensure that the water level was sufficiently high in dry periods. This feature was designed and constructed with a high level of expertise and remains an important element of the industrial heritage of Westmeath.