North East “Ancient Monument” project nears completion with £310,000 repair package

A North East “Ancient Monument” regeneration project is nearing completion following a £310k repair package.

Washington F Pit Museum, located within the Grade II listed F-Pit Engine House is one of only ten Scheduled Ancient Monuments in Sunderland and an iconic landmark that showcases the important history of coal mining in the region.

Sunderland City Council has spent £310k undertaking an extensive package of repair works to bring the Engine House back into good condition including roof, window, brick, render and internal joinery repairs.

Located in Albany Park, F-Pit has been operating as a museum since 1976. It is especially significant as it retains the original winding engine that was built by the Grange Iron Company in 1888, as well as the steel headgear that was once used to bring a cage of coal or miners from great depths in the mine to the surface.

The council is now moving onto the next stage of the project to develop regeneration proposals for the F-Pit Museum and Albany Park, to rejuvenate the park and build a new visitor centre and café to enhance the heritage offer and visitor appeal of this site.

Councillor Linda Williams, cabinet member for Vibrant City, said: “The F-Pit is an important part of Washington’s heritage and it’s fantastic to see the repair works complete to ensure we protect the future of this significant site.

“I’m proud to be the daughter and granddaughter of a miner and proud to represent this fantastic area of Sunderland that holds so much rich history.

“As a council we are committed to bringing forward key regeneration projects across the city. The further investment to improve the surrounding Albany Park and the overall visitor experience at F Pit, will not only attract and welcome new visitors to Washington but pay respect to our coal mining history.

Councillor Williams concluded: “We are keen for as many residents and visitors as possible to get involved, share their views, and help shape the proposals.”

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