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Sandwell coal chutes report published

18th Aug 2006

A report on the recently dismantled Sandwell Park Colliery coal chutes has now been completed and will offer a fascinating insight into the history of the site for future generations.

British Waterways commissioned Birmingham Archaeology to carry out historic building recording after an English Heritage Report found that the 1930s chutes were beyond repair. The recording of the coal chutes followed RHCME English Heritage Level 3 conventions and the finished report provides a systematic account of the building’s origins, development and use.

History of the coal chutes

It records that the Sandwell Park Colliery Company was formed in 1870 and the pit strategically located to take advantage of important transport links provided by both the railway and the canal. The coal chutes were built in 1937-38 on an existing wharf for the purpose of loading coal from the colliery onto narrowboats.

The report describes, in detail, the structural composition and physical appearance of the chutes and identifies the important association the building had with the region’s industrial and social heritage.

An assessment by English Heritage advises that due to their unsound condition, late construction date and absence of group value, the coal chutes could not be afforded statutory protection and were beyond economic repair. As such, the historic building report forms the 'preservation by record' of this structure and will act as an important reference document for future generations.

The study also includes drawn and photographic records to illustrate the building’s appearance and structure and to support the historical analysis.

Fascinating part of canal history

Simon Railton, environment and heritage manager for British Waterways, said the report is a vital record of a fascinating part of local canal history:

"The role the coal chutes played in Sandwell’s mining past is significant. It’s regrettable that after a full analysis of the site the chutes were found to be structurally unsound, but this report is a full and accurate record of the important part they played in the area’s history that will be available to the local community now and for future generations."

The completed study will be deposited in the Community History and Archives Service at Smethwick Library. Copies will also be held by British Waterways and Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council for further selective distribution.

Last updated: 22/10/2008