Vital conservation works underway at historic Ellesmere Yard
Waterways charity Canal & River Trust is currently carrying out major repair works at the historic Ellesmere Yard in Shropshire, helping to protect this important canal site for future generations
The repairs are being funded by a £113,000 grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, a government programme aimed at improving pride in place and increasing life chances across the UK. The funding supports projects that regenerate communities, protect heritage, boost skills and invest in local places.
Opened in 1806 Ellesmere Yard is one of the best‑preserved canal maintenance yards in the country and forms an important part of the Llangollen Canal’s history. It was originally built to serve the Ellesmere Canal Company and has been a working canal yard for 220 years.
The work focuses on a comprehensive programme of repairs and conservation across Ellesmere Yard, including replacing the Pine Loft’s roof with traditional slate, carrying out gutter repairs throughout the site, and repairing and refurbishing 17 historic timber windows dating back to 1806.
Further works include timber repairs and redecoration to the historic weigh station using traditional lime finishes, rebuilding a deteriorated chimney at the Mess Room, limewashing the Engine Room walls, and refurbishing the Foreman’s Office window and lookout.
The works will help conserve the yards historic buildings whilst protecting the character and stories that make the site so special. The project will help ensure Ellesmere Yard continues to be a working place where people can learn new skills, volunteer and get involved with their local canal.
Henriette Breukelaar, director for West Midlands at Canal & River Trust, said: “This funding has been vital in enabling us to begin the much-needed conservation works at Ellesmere Yard, using traditional materials and skills that respect the site’s historic significance.
“These repairs will help protect and safeguard this special place for future generations, while allowing us to continue involving young people, volunteers and the local community in our preservation work. Our aim is to ensure Ellesmere Yard remains a living, working part of the canal network, a place where heritage, education and skills development can thrive, rather than becoming a static historic monument.”
The works are due to finish at the end of May.
For more information on Canal & River Trust, including how you can volunteer or donate to support our work, visit canalrivertrust.org.uk