DULVERTON’S historic weir and leat will be the centrepiece of a joint Oxford University project planned for this summer which will explore the archaeological, artistic and social aspects of the iconic heritage site through a range of projects and events.

Dulverton Weir and Leat Conservation Trust will join with Oxford University school of architecture to host the research project ‘The Ripple Effect – noticing rivers past and present’ planned for July 1-31. Events will take place in or alongside the leat.

The project will create a series of artworks, learning materials and short films, all accessible online, and will run in parallel with a kinetic sculpture exhibition. Visitors will also be able to see ‘evaluation trenches’ dug by North Devon Archaeological Society.

The weir and leat are owned by Somerset West and Taunton district council, whose lead member for assets, Cllr Marcus Kravis, said: “This is a tangible example of the ongoing co-operation between the council and the conservation trust to restore the iconic weir and leat to its rightful place as part of Dulverton’s heritage.”

Trustee of the conservation trust, Richard Partington, said: “We look forward to working with Oxford University on this exciting project which will help us spread the message about the weir and leat and its importance as a heritage asset.”

Research fellow of Wolfson College, Oxford, Dr Courtney Nimura, said: “We are really pleased that the trust is co-operating with us on this public engagement project to highlight the importance of rivers in our communities from prehistory to the present day.

And Chris Preece, chairman of North Devon Archaeological Society, added: “This interdisciplinary approach will undoubtedly enhance our knowledge of this fascinating archaeological landscape.”

The event will be in collaboration with the school of archaeology’s artist-in-residence Miranda Cresswell. For further information: ebbandflow.web.ox.ac.uk