Council steps in to preserve Doncaster area landmark museum

A local council has stepped in to save and preserve a historic and landmark Doncaster area museum.

Owston Ferry Pumping Engine Preservation Society launched a plea to help save the historic building.

North Lincolnshire Council has now moved to save it.

A Council spokesperson said: “We listened. We heard residents. We acted.

“North Lincolnshire Council has stepped in to protect the historic Owston Ferry pumping station after 235 objections and a sustained local campaign to save the building.

“A Building Preservation Notice is being served, giving the pumping station immediate protection while Historic England looks to formally list it and protect it forever.

Coun Rob Waltham said: “We promised to deliver the things that matter for residents and this is another example of us keeping that promise.”

“Huge credit too to local residents, ward councillors and the Owston Ferry Pumping Engine Presevation Society for making the case so strongly.

“Once heritage like this is gone, it is gone forever.”

A distnctive landmark in the Isle of Axholme village, the museum was closed earlier this year after faults were discovered.

Earlier, a spokesperson said: “As most people are aware, we have had an inspection on our chimney which has found it to be in an unsafe condition.

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“We are very very keen to ensure that we are given a fair chance to save the chimney as an important local landmark and part of the Isle's industrial past.

“We have had massive local support, and other people working on our behalf to raise awareness.

“Now we are in receipt of more of the facts, we need your help.”

Located on South Street, the site was built more than 100 years ago to drain 5,000 acres of low-lying agricultural land into the River Trent.

Today, the site functions as a museum operated by the Owston Ferry Pumping Engine Preservation Society.