The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) has awarded Sandfields Pumping Station, run by the Lichfield Waterworks Trust, with one of its Heritage Engineering Awards. This prestigious honour celebrates Sandfields’ vital role in bringing clean water to the Black Country and advancing public health during Britain’s industrial period.
John Wood, chairman of the IMechE Heritage Awards committee noted that: “Sandfields Pumping Station is not just another pumping station”, whlst Katy Shore-Kapsis, chair of the Lichfield Waterworks Trust, added: “This award is a huge honour for Sandfields and for everyone who has dedicated time and passion to keeping its legacy alive.
The plaque, unveiled in October 2025 by Matt Garside President of the IMechE, reads: “The Sandfields Pumping Station was the first built for the South Staffordshire Waterworks Company to provide clean water to the industrial towns of the Black Country. The Cornish beam engine, operational from 1873 to 1927, could pump up to 2 million gallons of water per day.”
The Lichfield Waterworks Trust now cares for the site and its volunteers carry out restoration projects as well as running guided tours and educational programmes. They are currently raising funds to get the Cornish Pumping Engine working again. Further details here: https://lichfieldwaterworkstrust.co.uk/
Industrial Heritage Networks 