Are these building plans going ahead at Bugsworth Basin?
These period‑correct designs, drawn up in the early 2000s by John McCALL ARCHITECTS, were the vision of many volunteers, some, who are sadly no longer with us. The designs, a sympathetic vision to blend in with the basin.
The first shows a first‑class welfare building with tool storage; the second proposes a welcoming visitor centre to inspire future historians and visitors.
There is now no worker facility at Bugsworth after the recent closure of the facilities due to health concerns. This isn’t where the journey should end for the Basin’s maintenance! CRT staff need a base on site to carry out essential restoration and works.
Things like this don’t get off the ground without vocal support if you’d like to see something like this for Bugsworth Basin, please make your support known to your local Councillors www.whaleybridgetowncouncil.gov.uk/councillors and to the Canal & River Trust enquiries.northwest@canalrivertrust.org.uk — together MAYBE we can help turn plans like these into reality and secure the site’s future for generations to come?
With the Whaley Bridge Toddbrook Reservoir Dam repaired and the hard work completing, there’s renewed hope for the future — While the community remains mindful of the roughly £50 million spent on repairs.
Could these wonderful plans we see ever come to light? I truly hope so.