Renovation of Aqueduct Cottage on Cromford Canal

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust is delighted to announce that plans have been submitted for the much-loved Aqueduct Cottage on Cromford Canal.

The old lock keeper’s cottage, circa 19^th Century, has long stood in ruin since its heyday when it was a small family home in an idyllic location. But, since then its condition has rapidly declined and it currently sits as a well-known ruin at the entrance to the Trust’s Lea Wood Nature Reserve.

But this month, working in partnership with James Boon Architects, the Trust submitted a planning application to repair and repurpose the cottage.

Alex Morley who is leading on the project for the Trust said, “It’s all part of helping as many people as possible understand why Lea Wood and the wider Derwent Valley is so special. The work will remain true to the original façade of this well documented, and well-loved, piece of Cromford Canal’s history.

“People will be welcomed inside this historic gem to learn why the building and its location are so distinct and then invited go on to discover the magic and beauty of Lea Wood and its wild surroundings. It will be a real highlight on the well-trodden Cromford Canal.”

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust have had ownership of the cottage since 2012. The drive to repair the cottage stemmed from the Trust’s National Lottery Heritage Funded DerwentWISE project which looks after natural, cultural and industrial heritage throughout the Lower Derwent Valley.

The Trust hope to hear whether or not plans have been successful in April 2019.

To support the Trust with this work, you can become a member at www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/join

Photo: Ashley Franklin