From Victorian Innovation to a Hub for Art, Nature, and Heritage
Built-in 1884 by the Staffordshire Potteries Waterworks Company, Stockton Brook Waterworks was one of several pumping stations constructed to meet the increasing demand for clean drinking water in North Staffordshire. As the population rapidly grew, reaching approximately 200,000 by 1882, a reliable water supply became crucial. To address this, a successful trial borehole was drilled into the Millstone Grit beneath the North Staffordshire coal seams, providing a reliable water source.
This historic waterworks is now opening its doors to the public this Saturday, 28th September, from 11am to 3pm.
I went along today to have a look inside, and find out the plans for this beautiful building.
The station’s two horizontal compound tandem "Davey" steam engines were installed to pump water from the underground strata to Goldenhill, Brown Edge, and Bagnall reservoirs. The waterworks were part of a broader network ensuring the supply of clean water to towns such as Kidsgrove, Tunstall, and Goldenhill. The station operated using steam engines until 1936, when electric pumps took over, signifying the end of an era for the grand Victorian technology.
The Stockton Brook Waterworks was more than just a functional structure; it was a marvel of Victorian industrial design. Its grand brick architecture, comprising a boiler house and an engine hall, was built to accommodate large steam engines and boilers. At its height, the building housed three Lancashire boilers that provided steam power to drive the pumps, allowing water to be extracted from a well over 300 feet deep. For decades, it played a vital role in maintaining a consistent supply of water for both the local community and industries across North Staffordshire.
As the station’s role diminished over time, Severn Trent Water eventually decommissioned the building in 2004. However, rather than fall into disrepair, Stockton Brook Waterworks found a new lease of life when it was purchased by Louise Adams and Mark Delf. These two artists and designers saw the potential in the building and surrounding six and a half acres of land, nestled along the Caldon Canal.
Recognising the building's historical significance and beauty, Adams and Delf set out on a journey to save it. They immediately began work on stabilising the deteriorating structure, starting with an extensive restoration of the engine hall's roof. The project involved importing pitch pine wood from Honduras, a durable hardwood that could withstand the test of time. This intricate restoration work highlighted the couple's commitment to preserving the building’s Victorian craftsmanship while ensuring it remains fit for the future.
OS Maps from the 1890s and the 1950s
A Vision for the Future: Arts, Nature, and Heritage at Stockton Brook Waterworks
Fast forward to today, and Stockton Brook Waterworks is on the cusp of becoming a vibrant community centre, blending the beauty of nature with artistic and heritage-focused activities. Louise Adams and Mark Delf, now joined by three additional directors, established a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2020 to secure funding and advance their vision for the site.
The open weekend on the 27th and 28th of September 2024 is an opportunity for the public to explore this magnificent building and imagine its future. The Engine Hall, once home to powerful steam engines, has been transformed into an elegant, light-filled space. The grand oak doors, now in desperate need of renovation, will soon be restored as part of the ongoing plans, alongside the installation of new windows, modern facilities, and CCTV to protect the site.
The future of the waterworks hinges on transforming it into a centre for art, nature, and heritage. The CIC is applying for a UK Shared Prosperity Grant from Staffordshire Moorlands District Council to support these renovations, and they are seeking crowdfunding to provide the necessary match funding. Every contribution helps unlock further financial support and brings the community one step closer to fully reopening this historic landmark.
A Creative Hub in the Heart of Nature
The vision for Stockton Brook Waterworks goes beyond simply restoring a building. The aim is to create a community hub that will provide flexible spaces for meetings, workshops, art exhibitions, and even a café. The tranquil location, nestled within a conservation area by the canal, offers an inspiring setting for a wide range of activities, from heritage talks to nature walks. Earlier this year, the site hosted National Meadows Day, an event that brought visitors to explore its wildflower meadows and observe the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment.
Stockton Brook Waterworks can serve as an example of how old industrial buildings can be repurposed to meet modern needs. By combining traditional skills with new technologies, they hope to create a sustainable and welcoming space that promotes well-being, creativity, and social engagement. The project will also offer opportunities for locals to get involved in the restoration process, learning valuable skills and helping to preserve a key piece of North Staffordshire’s industrial heritage.
Preserving History, Unlocking the Future
The history of Stockton Brook Waterworks is deeply tied to the growth of North Staffordshire. From its role in providing clean water to a rapidly industrialising region in the late 19th century, to its current transformation into a community centre for art, nature, and heritage, the building has always served the needs of its people. Today, its future rests in the hands of those who cherish its past and see its potential to enrich the lives of future generations.
The public is encouraged to have their say in shaping the waterworks’ future. A questionnaire has been launched to gather ideas on how the building can best serve the local community. This feedback will be invaluable in securing future grants and demonstrating the need for a creative, nature-focused space in the heart of North Staffordshire.
As you step through the grand oak doors of Stockton Brook Waterworks during this open weekend, take a moment to reflect on its past, its present, and the exciting future that lies ahead. With support from the community, this historic building will once again open its doors—not just as a relic of Victorian engineering but as a thriving, sustainable hub for all to enjoy.
It is open 11am - 3pm on Saturday 28th September. Parking is on Stockton Brook Scout Hut or there is limited parking at the Waterworks. There are refreshments.
For more information on the project and how you can contribute, visit their crowdfunding campaign. You can also complete the questionnaire to help shape the future of this extraordinary site.
Fill in the questionnaire here
If you like what you have read, please feel free to support me by following and signing up for my newsletter and/or buying me a coffee!
Thank you.
Check out my online shop for my local photography and art