VOLUNTEERS have been busy at work before the next phase of work on the Murgatroyd Brine Pumps.

Volunteer work started in April and the area surrounding the building has been cleared ahead of the groundwork starting on Wednesday, May 8.

Kerry Kirwan, heritage development officer, said: “The volunteers have been clearing the area so we can get a welfare tent in and scaffolding around the building.”

The volunteers have been clearing the overhanging trees and vegetation in the area south east of the pump building.

Kerry said: “We are hoping that the main building work can begin on May 20. At the moment we are just trying to work out what the volunteers will be doing.

“Some will be working on the gantry, others will be working with the pumps themselves and others will be involved in the clean-up.”