History

Colonel Monk of the Cromwellian Army orders a survey on linking Lough Neagh to the eastern seaboard.

Newry Canal completed as the first summit canal in the British Isles.

A survey of the Lagan made by the Surveyor General, Arthur Dobbs. Belfast encouraged to compete with Newry as a port.

Petitions presented to the Irish Parliament supporting a Lagan Navigation. Act of Parliament passed for a tax on spirits and beer to be levied in the Laganside districts to fund the construction.

First grant of public funds. Commissioners of Inland Navigation appoint engineer Thomas Omer to supervise the scheme.

Navigation from Belfast to Lisburn opened.

Navigation extended to Sprucefield. Grants ceased and the spirits tax of £1,000 per year not sufficient to progress work.

Marquis of Donegall takes over the Navigation works with a private company. Richard Owen, an English engineer, is appointed to complete the navigation to Lough Neagh.

Canal driven through to EllisÂ’s Gut (Port Chichester was rejected as a name) on the shores of Lough Neagh.

Lagan Navigation Company established. Ulster Canal opens linking Lough Neagh and Lough Erne.

Canal used to transport supplies during World War I & II.

Lough Neagh to Lisburn stretch closed.

Lisburn to Belfast stretch closed.

Moira to Sprucefield section lost due to construction of the M1 Motorway.

Formation of the Lagan Canal Trust.

During this year Lagan Canal Trust became Lagan Navigation Trust