In early times a ford or ferry helped people cross the Black and White Cart to reach the small town of Inchinnan.
In early times a ford or ferry helped people cross the Black and
White Cart to reach the small town of Inchinnan. In 1759 a
nine-arched stone bridge was constructed where the two rivers met.
However, this meant that ships sailing up to Paisley had to lower
their masts - slow, hard work - to pass through. A canal was then
constructed to get round the problem, first with a swing
bridge and, in 1923, with the present bascule bridge.
'Bascule' is French for a seesaw or balance. This type of
bridge, introduced in the 1850s became widespread as a means to
maintain a roadway while allowing a ship to pass through when
required. Tower Bridge, London, is the best known example.
Also at Renfrew (Back to listing)