Newark Heritage Barge a work in progress

After nearly four months out of the water on White House Wharf, Newark Heritage Barge –The Leicester Trader’s restoration work is nearly complete.

Having totted up over 700 volunteer hours, the entire hull is nearly re plated, ensuring the sustainability of this mobile heritage centre for the next generation.

Les Reid, Project Leader and his team of professional and volunteer welders and fabricators have worked tirelessly to complete the external work thanks to free dry docking from the owner of the wharf who is a member.

The Leicester Trader is the only remaining Trent size dumb barge in original condition and the last built of the size dictated by the old William Jessop locks of the Trent Navigation. This barge now guarantees its place as a local tourist attraction for Newark, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and working boat communities along The River Trent. This much needed conservation work will also ensure that the barge comprehensively fulfils its insurance regulations ensuring visitors can re-live this part of our industrial history.

In total over £8,000 has been spent on the restoration of the hull which, when completed will have increased the value of this vessel from £17,000 to £50,000 following a recent revaluation

Would you like to support the project?

If you are able to support this project with much needed donations or join as a member please get in touch with Les Reid, Project Leader directly on 07971 589 612.

Visit the Newark Heritage Barge website to continue following their progress.