MILLIONS of pounds could be needed to refurbish a historic Cheshire West landmark and help it realise it's 'untapped potential'.
The Canal & River Trust is looking to revamp the Anderton Boat Lift to improve its stature as a visitor attraction and educational facility.
To that end, the Trust is launching a major funding bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund which could cover part of the cost.
Now Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury has pledged his support to the bid to preserve the boat lift for future generations.
Mr Amesbury heard about the huge sum needed to sustain the 1875 structure after meeting with Daniel Greenhalgh, director (North West), of the Canal & River Trust, at the charity’s Navigation Road base.
The MP said: "Daniel explained the computer system controlling the boat lift was past its sell-by date along with the wiring that needs replacing.
"The iron structure needs repainting and expensive work will need to be carried out on the hydraulic ram cylinders that power the lift.
"The Canal & River Trust believes the attraction has untapped potential as a visitor attraction and as an educational facility for enthusing young people about science and engineering.
"But it needs to be preserved for the future."
Mr Amesbury will write in support of the funding bid but hopes companies might also help.
He has already raised the suggestion with developers behind the Winnington Works housing scheme that would benefit from views overlooking Britain’s first boat lift.
More than £7 million was previously raised back in 2000 to fund a major restoration project of the boat lift before it reopened and began operating again on March 26, 2002.
A schedule of works is being prepared that will likely also include proposals for updating the visitor centre for tourists, schools, events, conferences, weddings, exhibitions and crafts.
Open days are taking place at the Anderton Boat Lift between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, February 26, and Sunday, February 27, with lots of family activities and top of the lift tours.
The event coincides with maintenance repairs, creating an opportunity for the trust to engage with the community and showcase its activities.
Entrance is free but certain activities, like Let’s Fish and Let’s Paddle taster sessions, need to be booked in advance.
For more information, click here.
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