The MONTGOMERY Canal has received yet another boost in its restoration efforts.

The Association for Industrial Archaeology has awarded a grant of £14,600 to the Shropshire Union Canal Society for the restoration of the historic tramway wharf at Crickheath.

The canal wharf holds significant historical value as it served as the endpoint of a horse-drawn tramway that spanned 2½ miles from the limestone quarry at Porth-y-waen.

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Expressing gratitude for the grant, Tom Fulda, project manager of the Shropshire Union Canal Society, highlighted its substantial impact on the restoration project.

He said: “We are very grateful for this generous grant, it will substantially help the project with the cost of plant hire, volunteer welfare and materials as well as promoting the work of the Association for Industrial Archaeology, the national society for industrial heritage, which has supported the study, preservation and presentation of many sites since the 70’s."

Constructed by dedicated navvies during the late 18th century, the wharf features a wide rubble stone wall made from local limestone.

The restoration work aims to recreate the original construction of the wall, with the assistance of experts from the Dry Stone Walling Association who will ensure durable and high-quality repairs.

The wall is adorned with large copings of buff and yellow sandstone/gritstone that originally supported the tramway rails and wagons used to unload stone into narrowboats docked at the wharf.

Some variations in materials and different stonemason dressing marks suggest that these copings may have been repurposed from other sources during the 18th century.

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However, many of the copings have deteriorated over time and will require replacement.

The Association for Industrial Archaeology is committed to advancing the study and appreciation of industrial archaeology.

Through its program of awards and grants, the organization aims to promote the preservation and understanding of industrial heritage.

Furthermore, the Association actively engages with individuals in their early careers to foster a broad interest in this field.