River Weaver Navigation Society is objecting to plans to convert historic Navigation Road site into flats while also offering a constructive alternative.
The River Weaver Navigation Society is calling for a planning application to convert the historic former River Weaver Trustees’ Headquarters at Navigation Road, Northwich, into flats to be refused.
The Society believes that this is a site of exceptional historical and international importance, with enormous potential to benefit the town and the wider Weaver Valley. Our President, John Tackley, has submitted a response to the planning application, setting out why the building and its surrounding site deserve a much more ambitious future.
Established in the early days of the River Weaver Navigation Trust, following the 1721 Act of Parliament, Navigation Road Yard was at the heart of the development and management of one of Cheshire’s most important industrial waterways.
The River Weaver Navigation helped transform the Cheshire salt industry, providing an efficient means of transporting salt to Liverpool and markets further afield. The chemical research and industrial innovation that grew up alongside the river also contributed to the development of the modern plastics industry, including the discovery of polythene before the Second World War.
The site is also closely associated with the outstanding engineering achievements of the Weaver Trustees, whose work included the creation of the world-famous Anderton Boat Lift. It is surrounded by, or incorporates, three Grade II listed structures and has further fascinating connections with historic shipbuilding and river transport.
A missed opportunity for Northwich?
John argues that rather than being converted into private flats, the site should be developed as a place where people can discover, explore and celebrate this remarkable heritage.
It could become a centre of interest for tourists, historians, academics, school groups, artists and boat visitors, while providing opportunities for new businesses, employment and tourism. With imagination and good management, it could become a thriving hub and a significant asset for Northwich and the Weaver Valley.
The Society recognises that developing such a vision will require commitment and enthusiasm and are offering advice and support, drawing on the considerable knowledge and experience of members. We are also offering a constructive alternative, that could reconcile residential conversion with the preservation of the site’s exceptional heritage. This includes retaining a heritage and community space, potentially the Trustees’ Board Room, for residents and approved public use, alongside appropriate access to the River Weaver and listed buildings.
We believe this is a unique opportunity that should not be lost. The site’s international heritage deserves to be recognised and made accessible for future generations, rather than allowed to disappear from public view.
