Crowdfunding campaign launched to restore M Shed's cargo cranes

Crowdfunding campaign launched to restore M Shed's cargo cranes

Posted on: 12 Aug 2020

Organisers are asking for donations to restore the landmark harbourside cranes.

 

Bristol's Museums Development Trust have launched a crowdfunding campaign to restore and protect a landmark of the city's harbourside, with the cargo cranes outside the M Shed in need of "urgent" conservation work.

 

An iconic part of the city centre landscape, the four electric cranes are reportedly showing significant signs of deterioration, having been left untouched for the best part of a decade.

 

In just a few days the campaign has raised almost £1,000 of a £35,000 target. Head to the campaign's JustGiving page to find out more.

Bristol Docks operated from 1950-1975. Photo: M Shed

Built in the 1950s, the harbourside cargo cranes have witnesses more than half a century of trade and development in central Bristol. 

 

From regular use as part of a bustling port in their early days, the eye-catching structures were almost sold for scrap when the docks were officially closed in the mid-70s.

 

Instead, recognising that the cranes were an important part of Bristol's industrial history, a pressure group was formed to buy back two of the four cranes, with Bristol City Council purchasing the remaining two.

 

All four cranes passed into the care of Bristol museums in 1989.

 

 

When the M Shed opened in 2011, electrical power was restored to the cranes, and since then a team of dedicated volunteers have put thousands of collective hours into keeping them in working order.

 

In the years since, members of the public have been able to explore inside the cranes on visiting days, but more recently it has become apparent that the structures are in dire need of repair to remain operational.

 

Donations to the Bristol Museums Development Trust's crowdfunding campaign will go towards a full repaint and restoration project led by a specialist repair crew. 

 

To help secure a future for an iconic part of Bristol's harbourside, visit the crowdfunding page and consider making a donation.

 

All money raised will go towards vital conservation work and safeguard an important piece of Bristol's history for years to come.

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Article by:

Matt Robson

 

Editor - 365Bristol.com & LOUD Magazine
 

Matt is a Journalism graduate and writer, passionate about supporting Bristol music, art and independent business. Get in touch via email at matt@365bristol.com.