Excavating a lock-keeper’s cottage

Unearthing History: NarrowBoat, Autumn 2025

Dr David Harrison discusses the rediscovery of a lost cottage on the Sankey Canal 

First excavation In September 2002, the Sankey Canal Restoration Society (SCRS) uncovered the cottage foundations. Topsoil was removed, brick bases revealed and photos and sketches were created, guided by the memories of former residents’ families. The excavation was part of broader SCRS efforts, dating back to 1992, to restore Newton Common Lock and its surroundings. Plans included reinstating the lock, rebuilding the cottage as a visitor centre and reopening the canal from Penkford Bridge to Bradley Lock. Initial surveys and planning began in 1994, with one draft calling the site “Heald Lock”, which is possibly a historic name. Second excavation In early 2024, SCRS returned to the site to record the remains more thoroughly for potential reconstruction or permanent display. The findings were consistent with a working-class home from the late 19th to early 20th century: crockery shards, clay pipe stems, bricks, window glass, slate and terracotta roof tiles and co…