Latest update on Brinsley Headstocks

After fencing off the structure, regular site inspections have been undertaken, whilst a number of options for the Headstocks were considered. Signs were erected on the site to inform residents of the situation and the Friends of Brinsley Headstocks have been kept informed.  

At the beginning of September 2023, the metal colliery wheels were removed, in the hope that the timbers from the towers could be salvaged. However, a more recent site inspection highlighted that one of the legs of the tower had started to collapse indicating that the structure had deteriorated further.  

Given the continued decline, restoration of the structure, as it currently stood was no longer possible and in the vested interest of public safety, the most appropriate course of action was to have the Headstocks dismantled.

The Headstocks were safely dismantled in December and the materials are currently being sorted to assess if there is anything that may be reusable for a future structure. A report is currently being prepared to outline potential replacement options and the costs associated with those, which will be considered by Cabinet.  

We understand that local residents feel very passionate about the headstocks and their heritage. We’d like to offer reassurance that all iron work is being saved and each piece of wood is being checked carefully and salvaged where possible. If we find wood with signs of rot, it is not viable to be retained.

We will be running a consultation regarding possible replacement options for Headstocks in the coming months and will share more details about how residents can share their views when this is available.