Lucy Wood finds out more…
PREPARATORY work has begun on the programme to revitalise Anderton Boat Lift, one of the seven wonders of Britain’s canal network.
The Canal and River Trust has appointed specialist engineering firm JN Bentley to conduct initial investigations on the world’s first commercial boat lift, with hopes of undertaking the refurbishment in the autumn of 2025.
Dating back to 1875, and last fully refurbished at the turn of the millennium, the structure now needs a major upgrade to remain operational. Blast-cleaning, repairs and a repaint are required, the timber control cabin needs replacing, and the IT operating system must be updated.
The first phase of the Engineering the Future initiative includes investigations and surveys around the lift’s grounds and the lift itself, identifying high-priority repairs, and confirming design elements. This information will be used in the main programme due to take place next year, following the lift’s 150th anniversary celebrations in July.
There are also plans to upgrade the visitor centre to include a new, flexible events space to replace the existing marquee, plus the development of a learning, skills and outreach programme.
Jason Leach, the CRT’s head of external programme delivery, said: “Anderton Boat Lift is an iconic symbol of our industrial heritage and it’s amazing that it is still in use today, providing a vital link for boaters between the River Weaver and the Trent and Mersey Canal. With such a rich history, it has an important role to play in telling the story of our canals to visitors.
“We are committed to preserving it for navigation and to inspire future generations. The investigatory work is the first step in upgrading the boat lift and its surrounding environments. This will not only make it more resilient and keep it available to boaters, but the transformation of the grounds and visitor centre will mean more people of all ages can see, hear, and experience this special place and learn about why it’s so vital to keep the boat lift – and our canal network – alive.”
Andrew Holt, operations manager at JN Bentley, added: “We bring 50-plus years of experience to the project to deliver the improvements the structure deserves. We recognise the importance of the lift to boaters, the local community, and the heritage of our waterways as a whole, and we look forward to collaborating with the CRT to deliver the project over the coming months.”
The development phase of the Engineering the Future project is supported by a £574,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. An application for second stage funding will be made by the CRT next spring, while it seeks further financial and other support from trusts, foundations and other avenues. Once underway, the refurbishment of the lift is expected to last between 12 and 18 months.
