Objectives
- Raise awareness of this historical piece of infrastructure, which was a vital part of Worcester’s development.
- Open up access to the tower remains using a suitable crossing at Barbourne Brook if viable.
Where is Barbourne Water Tower?
On the northern bank of Barbourne Brook in the western extension of Gheluvelt Park.
Unverified history of the tower
Barbourne Water Tower was completed after 1770 following an Act to improve the supply of water to Worcester.
The completion of the tower was also a response to the construction of Worcester Bridge in 1781. Its predecessor, which adjoined Newport Street a little further north, had an island below, which was the location of the water supply before the tower was erected. The demolition of the old bridge took the island with it; therefore, a new supply was required, hence why the tower was constructed.
What remains?
The tower base survives including its supportive abutments. The base has been capped with modern bricks to prevent further deterioration.
Our proposal
- Produce an information board detailing the tower’s history and its relation to the present environment. The society has registered an interest for funding the board.
- Erect the information board near the path running along the south bank.
Additional considerations
A small jetty exists at the end of a path that leads down to Barbourne Brook opposite the tower remains. Convert this jetty into a footbridge or stepping stones and create a path around the tower so the public can cross the brook and inspect the remains.