2017 saw IWA branches across the country undertake a survey of historic structures and buildings in their area.
The purpose was to identify and record waterways heritage on a database to enable the Association to determine the extent of the risk to heritage. Having a record of these assets will help us to ensure that they are protected.
IWA West London Branch completed the survey of 36 miles of canal in 2018. Out of a total of 89 entries the list included:
• 3 Scheduled Ancient Monuments
• 30 Listed Buildings
• 10 Locally Listed Buildings
• 23 Buildings and Structures considered to be at risk
Our survey was slightly unusual in that we included some artifacts that were shown on old maps but where there was no longer any evidence of their existence on the ground. Many of these are on old industrial sites that are likely to be redeveloped in the future. By including this material we have a readily available resource when planning proposals emerge for redevelopment.
During the pre-planning consultation process it will allow us to campaign for the possible reconstruction of former canal structures such as wharves and basins. We have also included some heritage assets that are not waterways related but are important in preserving the setting of the canal.
If you would like a copy of our survey information please email us westlondon@waterways.org.uk and we will email you the spreadsheets as PDF attachments.
How you can help
Add to our Branch Survey of Historic Buildings and Structures. If you are aware of any waterways historic structures or artifacts in the West London area that are not included on our Branch spreadsheets please let us know. These may be quite small things such as signage, mileage markers, old canal company boundary markers etc. Some artifacts and buildings of historic interest may be a short distance from the canal but they are of importance if their use was once connected with the waterways.
Please email the details to westlondon@waterways.org.uk. Try to include as much information as possible such as photographs and the location using an Ordnance Survey Grid Reference or what3words. There are apps for smart phones that allow you to access location information on site using either the OS Grid or what3words systems.
