Middle Level Navigations
79.5 miles long with 4 locks

History and General Knowledge of the Middle Level Navigations

Full Extent of the Middle Level Navigations: Waterway Junctions and the River Nene Old Course

79.5 Miles of Navigable Waterway

• River Nene (Old Course) 35.5 miles
• Sixteen Foot Drain 7.5 miles
• Middle Level Drain 11.5 miles
• Well Creek 5.5 miles
• Kings Dyke 5 miles
• Wittlesey Dyke 7.5 miles
• Twenty Foot River 7 miles

The Middle Level Navigations form a crucial part of the extensive network of waterways in the East of England. These navigations connect the River Great Ouse to the River Nene, playing a significant role in the drainage and irrigation of the Fens while also providing routes for recreational boating and navigation. This article provides a detailed description of the full extent of the Middle Level Navigations, highlighting key waterway junctions and the River Nene Old Course.

Overview of the Middle Level Navigations - Geographical Scope
The Middle Level Navigations cover an intricate system of rivers, drains, and artificial cuts situated within the Fenlands of Cambridgeshire and Norfolk.

• Start Point: The system begins at Stanground Sluice, near Peterborough.
• End Point: It connects to the River Great Ouse at Salters Lode, near Downham Market.

Primary Function
Initially constructed for drainage purposes, the Middle Level Navigations have evolved to support recreational navigation and maintain water levels for agricultural activities.

Key Waterway Junctions

Stanground Sluice Junction

• Location: Near Peterborough, it marks the entrance from the River Nene to the Middle Level Navigations.
• Significance: It controls the water flow between the River Nene and the Middle Level Navigations, ensuring effective drainage and water management.

Whittlesey Junction

• Location: Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire.
• Significance: This junction provides a critical link between the Whittlesey Dyke and the main line of the Middle Level Navigations, facilitating navigation towards March and beyond.

Flood’s Ferry Junction

• Location: Near Ramsey, Cambridgeshire.
• Significance: At this junction, the Forty Foot Drain intersects with the main navigation route, offering navigable routes towards the town of Ramsey and further drainage channels.

Wiggenhall St. Germans Junction

• Location: Near Downham Market, Norfolk.
• Significance: This junction connects the Middle Level Navigations to the River Great Ouse, providing a crucial outfall for excess water and a navigable route to the Great Ouse system.

Detailed Description of the River Nene Old Course
Historical Context
The River Nene Old Course represents the historic route of the River Nene before significant modifications and the creation of the current navigable channel.

• Start Point: The Old Course branches off near Peterborough.
• End Point: It rejoins the main River Nene near Wisbech.

Navigational Features

• Winding Path: The Old Course follows a meandering route through the Fens, reflecting the natural drainage patterns of the landscape.
• Historic Bridges: Several historic bridges span the Old Course, each with unique architectural and historical significance.
• Lock Structures: There are numerous locks along the Old Course that were originally designed to manage water levels for navigation and irrigation.

Ecological Importance
The River Nene Old Course is not only significant for navigation but also for its ecological value.

• Biodiversity: The Old Course supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, providing a habitat for various aquatic and terrestrial species.
• Conservation Areas: Parts of the Old Course run through designated conservation areas, highlighting its importance for wildlife and natural heritage.

Connecting Routes and Navigations
Forty Foot Drain

• Location: Connects to the Middle Level Navigations at Flood’s Ferry Junction.
• Function: Primarily a drainage channel, it also supports navigation, providing access to Ramsey and surrounding areas.

Old Bedford River and New Bedford River

• Location: Parallel channels running from Earith to Denver Sluice.
• Function: These artificial rivers aid in the management of floodwaters and facilitate navigation towards the Great Ouse.

Well Creek

• Location: Runs from Outwell to Salters Lode.
• Significance: It forms a critical link in the Middle Level Navigations, connecting various towns and villages to the main navigation routes.

Present-Day Use and Maintenance
Recreational Boating
The Middle Level Navigations and the River Nene Old Course are popular with boating enthusiasts.

• Facilities: Numerous marinas, mooring points, and boatyards provide essential services to boaters.
• Events: Regular boating events and festivals celebrate the rich maritime heritage of the region.

Water Management
Maintaining water levels and managing flood risks remain primary functions of the Middle Level Navigations.

• Drainage: The system continues to serve its original purpose of draining the Fens and preventing flooding.
• Irrigation: Water from the navigations supports agricultural activities, ensuring the productivity of the fertile Fenlands.

Conclusion
The Middle Level Navigations, with their complex network of waterways and the historic River Nene Old Course, are a testament to human ingenuity in water management and navigation. From their origins in the Fens to their present-day significance, these waterways continue to play a vital role in drainage, irrigation, and recreational activities. The key junctions and the rich ecological and historical context of the River Nene Old Course highlight the importance of preserving and maintaining these essential waterways for future generations.