Newport and Caerleon Bridges over Usk Act 1597 facts for kids
| Act of Parliament | |
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| Citation | 39 Eliz. 1. c. 23 |
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| Dates | |
| Royal assent | February 9, 1597 |
| Other legislation | |
| Repealed by | Statute Law Revision Act 1948 |
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Status: Repealed
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The Newport and Caerleon Bridges over Usk Act 1597 was an important law passed by the Parliament of England in 1597. This law, also known by its official reference (39 Eliz. 1. c. 23), was about keeping two important bridges in Wales in good repair. It was eventually cancelled, or repealed, much later by the Statute Law Revision Act 1948.
Contents
What Was the Newport and Caerleon Bridges Act?
This law was created to make sure that the bridges over the River Usk in Newport and Caerleon were properly maintained. These bridges were very important for travel and trade in the area. They helped people and goods move across the river.
Why Was This Law Needed?
In the 1500s, bridges were often built and maintained by local communities. Sometimes, it was unclear who was responsible for fixing them when they broke. This Act made it clear that the people living in the County of Monmouth were responsible for these two specific bridges.
Who Paid for Bridge Repairs?
The Act stated that the people of Monmouthshire had to pay for the bridges' upkeep. The money was collected and managed in a way similar to an older law from 1530, called the Bridges Act 1530. This older law set out rules for how to assess, gather, and use money for bridge repairs.
Exceptions to the Rule
Not everyone had to contribute to the bridge repairs. If a town was already legally responsible for fixing a bridge over a main river, it did not have to pay into this fund. This prevented towns from being charged twice for similar duties.
When Was the Act Passed and Repealed?
The Newport and Caerleon Bridges over Usk Act was passed on February 9, 1597. It was part of a larger meeting of Parliament that started in October 1597. Laws like this were common in England to manage local issues.
The Act's End
This Act remained in effect for many centuries. However, it was eventually removed from the law books. This happened in 1948 when the Statute Law Revision Act 1948 was passed. This later Act aimed to simplify and update English law by getting rid of old laws that were no longer needed or were outdated.
