When done well, industrial heritage renovation projects can give so much back to the community. This was the state of the office at Sandfields Pumping Station in 2017 when the trust was granted a licence to enter the building to do some very basic renovation work.

The site has been neglected since 2005 and following several incident of metal thefts from the roof, unauthorised entry and vandalism, the office ended up looking like this.

For years un-cared for and for years un-loved.

Fortunately, the volunteers were able to see the potential opportunities of this room and what it could give back. They rised to the challenge. They could see opportunities to learn new skills, make new friends, work with others and engage with the community.

It was thier way to give something back and make things better for others.

You will agree, the transformation is astounding. A whole team of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds rolled up their sleeves and got stuck in. This was a team effort of individuals coming together to create a stunningly beautiful multipurpose room that will give a benefit to the communty for years to come.

There is still some work to complete, lighting, heating, overhead projector and screen. The team have successfully raised funds with a grant from the Millennium Point Foundation to install the new sub-mains. The teams will also be working with apprentices from Dudley College, to share their skills with young people.

This project will enable these young people to showcase their newly learned skills on a heritage building, that in time, they can show to their children and grandchildren.

This is a small part of a significant project that will see opportunity for all, potential fulfilled and talent fully utilised. So, how much will this fully equipped beautiful multipurpose room cost to hire?

Here at the Lichfield Waterworks Trust, money will never be a barrier to opportunity. So, all we ask is that you take what you need and give what you can, a donation will be fine.