Rescue of Bratch Pumping Station put in focus

The Grade II listed building, has fallen into a state of disrepair in recent years and there have been fears for its future.

However now it has emerged that a working group is being set up to try and come up with options for the site.

And the owners, Severn Trent Water, say they will work with officials to 'find a long term solution for its future'.

The pumping station is one of only 50 of its kind in England. It was built in1895.

The MP for South Staffordshire, Gavin Williamson, is urging residents to come forward with idea about how the site could be brought back into public use. Mr Williamson said: "The Bratch

Pumping Station, at Wombourne forms an important part of our local heritage. We need to find a sustainable solution, where the Bratch Pumping Station can support itself and still remain accessible to the general public.

"Any suggestions from local residents and businesses would be extremely welcome, as we seek to ensure that this rare building remains available to our community for generations to come."

South Staffordshire District Council is set to create a working group, alongside English Heritage.

Victoria Brown, a Severn Trent Water spokesperson said: "We are working with Gavin Williamson MP, English Heritage and the council at The Bratch to find the most appropriate, and mutually beneficial, long term solution for its future.

"It's an important piece of our industrial heritage and we at Severn Trent are committed to working hard to find good custodians who can deliver a sustainable future for this wonderful building."

Anyone with ideas on how to help is being urged to get in contact with the MP. Details of how to get in touch can be found at www.gavinwilliamson.org