Tardebigge Engine House facts for kids
The Tardebigge Engine House is a special old building in Tardebigge, Worcestershire, England. It used to be a place where a big machine helped move water for a canal. This building is considered a very important historical site.
What is the Tardebigge Engine House?
This building is located near lock 57 on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal. Locks are like water elevators that help boats move up and down hills. The Engine House was built to help the canal work properly. It is a "Grade II listed" building. This means it is an important historical building that is protected.
Its Important Job: Pumping Water
The main job of the Engine House was to pump water. It had a powerful steam engine inside. This engine moved water from a nearby lake, called the Tardebigge feeder reservoir. The reservoir is about 50 feet (15.2 meters) lower than the top part of the canal. The engine made sure there was enough water for the boats to travel. The steam engine was removed from the building in 1915.
From Engine House to Home: A Building's Journey
Over the years, the Tardebigge Engine House has had different uses. At one time, it was a pub called The Tylers Lock. In 2007, it was put up for sale. There were plans to turn it into a home.
Later, in 2008, a company called Vigo Software Ltd wanted to change the building into offices. However, their plans were not approved. Finally, in 2012, the building was changed into modern apartments.