The Don

[Bayleaf]

Not strictly Sheffield, but during the recent floods, someone commented that the flooding around Doncaster had been made worse because of the diversion in the past of the Don from its original route into the Trent, in order to improve navigation. Does anyone know when and where this was carried out? And what was the original path of the Don to the Trent?

[SteveHB]

The course of the River Don was diverted away from its historic course via Crowle and Eastoft with the surrounding flood plain. This flood plain was then reclaimed as valuable agricultural land. The Dutch River was created as the new artificial course of the Don via Rawcliffe Bridge to join the Ouse at Goole.

Drainage in this landscape character type started in the medieval period. The Dutch

River was constructed in the early 17th century as part of a wider scheme to

drain Hatfield moors. It was completed in 1633–36.

[Bayleaf]

The course of the River Don was diverted away from its historic course via Crowle and Eastoft with the surrounding flood plain. This flood plain was then reclaimed as valuable agricultural land. The Dutch River was created as the new artificial course of the Don via Rawcliffe Bridge to join the Ouse at Goole.

Drainage in this landscape character type started in the medieval period. The Dutch

River was constructed in the early 17th century as part of a wider scheme to

drain Hatfield moors. It was completed in 1633–36.

Thanks Steve, a very comprehensive answer!