Bridgewater Canal, Worsley
Part II... this is the new multi-level viewing platform currently under construction and running behind schedule if the March deadline is anything to go by. During early demolition and excavation works to the old viewing platform, two previously unknown tunnels were uncovered along with a stone quay and winch mechanism. Construction works were immediately stopped to facilitate a visit from Salford University's Archaeology experts who have laser-scanned, photographed and recorded these finds.
The first tunnel has since been blocked up (to the left of the two workmen) and the second tunnel - to the right of the first (behind the tall rebar and scaffolding tower), had a skin wall which prevented access into it. As the tunnels lie directly in front of where the new viewing platform, they will unfortunately be hidden from view once the works are complete. Following the thorough investigation by local archaeologists, the tunnels have been in-filled with compacted stone and a reversible foamcrete - this will ensure they will remain safely intact should a decision be taken in future to uncover them.
The main tunnel runs into the bank for at least 10 meters and the smaller side tunnel runs south and parallel to The Delph and the canal as it goes underneath the road bridge at the southern end of the site. Both are made from handmade brick and lime mortar. The larger tunnel appears to run to the north of the 18th and 19th century cornmill in this area and is wide enough to take a horse and cart.
The tunnels will however be referenced on the interpretation panels on the new viewing platform and the potential to restore the winch for display on the viewing platform is being explored. Work on the Delph island, the new viewing platform and the perimeter of the site are due to be finished in spring 2019. Research is still ongoing as to the exact provenance of these recent discoveries in the Delph.
Paul/Sally
In answer to your questions regarding a visitor centre, coffee shop with cakes, here's a classic example of a missed opportunity. Why didn't they halt the construction and re-design the viewing platform to incorporate these tunnels. Maybe even generate a little income from refreshments. Would have been a money spinner had the mine tunnels been partially opened to the public.
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