The bridge passes over the Newcourt Carrier. Attempts were made in the 17th century to canalise rivers, including the Avon, and the cutting of the Carrier was part of this scheme.
Inaugurated in 1664/5 by Act of Parliament it was proposed that by improving the river in this way freight could be carried from Christchurch to Salisbury. Work was started in September 1675 but by the turn of the century the project had been abandoned, although there is documented evidence that a few barges did in fact use the river between Downton and the Longford Estate.
Begun in 1665 and completed by 1690 the water meadows from Salisbury to Downton covered 250 acres along a 4 mile stretch of river. By flooding - or ‘drowning' - the land early grass growth and good crops of hay were produced allowing more livestock to be grazed.
‘Drowners’ - the men employed to keep the channels clear - dug and operated the many hatches and structures that allowed the water to be directed over the land. They worked closely with the shepherds and stockmen to get the very best results from this effective but complicated exercise of field management.
This area of valley water meadow is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and there are therefore many plants, insects, birds, fish and river creatures that make it a fascinating and peaceful part of the village landscape.
At the far side of the meadows, you pass through ‘Goose and Catherine Meads’, where there was once a ford crossing the river. Look across to the east and the water of the Mill Leat can be glimpsed. The river has provided the power for many mills throughout history and Downton has benefited from this source of energy for many of its industries.
On the negative side, the five rivers that flow through the Salisbury area, the Nadder, Wylye, Ebble, Bourne and Avon, converge before Downton. As a result, this part of the river valley is one of the largest water catchment areas in the country, and is therefore prone to occasional flooding. The large wall at the side of the river, approaching Iron Bridge, is part of a major flood defence system built around the village after a particularly bad flood in 2000.
