A PROTECTED monument with links to Middlewich’s salt history could be returned to its former glory.

Murgatroyd’s Brine Pump is the only intact pump with an original shaft left in Britain.

Officers from Middlewich Town Council and English Heritage are keen to see it transformed into a heritage centre.

It is hoped that schools can then visit the site, which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, to learn about the salt industry as part of their curriculum.

Kerry Fletcher, heritage development officer for Middlewich, said: “Our site is an important link to Cheshire’s salt industry and would work wonderfully linked to the Lion Salt Works further down the canal.”

An estimated £25,000 is needed to bring the plan to life with funds set to come from English Heritage and a Heritage Lottery Fund.

Jennie Stopford, of English Heritage, described the Murgatroyd’s site as having ‘national and international importance’ with German and Polish specialists often visiting.

The pump is also listed in English Heritage’s ‘buildings at risk’ register.

Clr Mike Parsons, of Middlewich Town Council, added: “There is no other brine pump in this country which is in half this condition and that could be brought back to life.

“It could show people how the salt industry worked in this part of the world.”

If the project goes ahead, it is also set to benefit the Town Wharf which would act as a central base for exhibition material, talks and bookings.

Ideally, Kerry hopes that tourists and residents will be able to view old photographs, documents and items donated by the families of workers.

Technical drawings illustrating how the pumps worked have also survived.

The search for brine began in Middlewich in 1889 when George Murgatroyd purchased the 42 acre Newton Farm.

Mr Murgatroyd sank a brine shaft 330ft into the ground at the edge of his property, beside Sanderson’s Brook and the railway.

In a report, Kerry said: “Murgatroyd’s discovery gave hope of employment and a renewal of the town’s prosperity.

“Flags were flown and the townspeople celebrated their fortune.”

Clr Parsons added: “The thing we’ve always worried about in Middlewich is preserving our heritage.

“This lets people know what was really going on in those days. If we lose this, we lose a piece of ourselves.”

Project leaders are currently looking into safety, security and access issues at the site.

Kerry would also be keen to hear from anyone with Murgatroyd connections. To get in touch, call 841379.