Volunteers restoring the Wilts & Berks Canal have completed work on a dry dock at Pewsham Locks near Chippenham.
The structure, which dates back to the 19th century, was uncovered during earlier excavation work at the site, with remains including original walls, a brick floor and fragments from narrowboat repairs.
Work to rebuild the dry dock began in 2019 and has been carried out by members of the trust’s Melksham, Chippenham and Calne branch.
As part of the project, supporters were invited to sponsor slate roof tiles, many of which now carry personal messages written underneath. Around 300 tiles were sponsored, including contributions from local residents, businesses and supporters from further afield.
The dry dock forms part of the wider Pewsham Locks site, which was once a busy section of the canal, raising boats nearly 30 feet between Melksham and Chippenham.
Project lead Dave Maloney said the discovery of the dry dock had been “a complete surprise”, adding that the team is “justifiably proud” of the work completed.
The £65,000 project has been funded through a combination of charity funds, sponsorship and support from local organisations including Wiltshire Community Foundation.
Work is now continuing on the adjacent lock chamber, which is being drained and repaired as part of the next phase.
The site is usually screened off, but visitors will be able to take a closer look at an open day on Saturday 13th June, which will include guided tours, boat rides and a pop-up café.
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