Harwich’s iconic Treadwheel Crane has been removed from Historic England’s Risk Register following completion of vital restoration works.
Historic England has published its annual Heritage at Risk Register for 2022. The Register is a yearly health-check of England’s most valued historic places and lists those most at risk of being lost.
Restoration works on the Grade ll* listed Treadwheel Crane, a unique building in Historic Harwich, began earlier this year which included works to the structure – such as repairing a ground slab causing subsidence – as well as restoration to the roof, timber frame, and the crane itself.
A grant of more than £140,000 was awarded to Tendring District Council (TDC) to fund the restoration through Historic England’s Heritage Stimulus Fund. TDC, which owns the crane, has funded the remaining 25% of the repair cost – almost £47,000.
An experimental but traditional technique using tar and sail cloth, rather than paint and other materials, was used to weatherproof the conical roof; which is one of the reasons Historic England supported the grant bid.
Carlo Guglielmi, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Corporate Finance & Governance, said it was important to protect the area’s heritage.
“I am delighted that this iconic and historic building has been removed from the Risk Register. It is testimony to the hard work and devotion put in by all members and partners involved in the restoration project, saving the Treadwheel Crane,” Councillor Guglielmi said.
To find out more about Historic Harwich visit www.historicharwich.co.uk or for further details about the Treadwheel Crane go to the Harwich Society website at www.harwich-society.co.uk