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The Pipe Bridge and Tidal Weir - River Clyde, Glasgow

The Weir's purpose is to stabilise the upstream banking, by maintaining a fixed water level, creating a deep, wide channel of water through the Green. Downstream of the Weir is entirely tidal, alternating between fresh and sea water.

 

The change from fresh water to salt water within river estuaries usually happens gradually over a number of miles. The Weir creates an unnatural situation: two distinct ecosystems separated by a barrier. This mix provides an important habitat for a range of birds, fish and mammals.

 

The Weir was built by Glasgow Corporation and completed in 1901. It has three adjustable gates, each 80 feet long and 12 feet high. The structure also supports two large water main pipes which cross the Clyde at this point.

 

www.glasgow.gov.uk/en/Residents/Environment/TidalWeir/

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Uploaded on March 19, 2011
Taken on February 25, 2011