Papplewick Pumping Station

This pumping station is the direct result of the soaring population in Nottingham during the Industrial Revolution.  Thanks to the development of the Framework Knitting and Lace Industry Nottingham increased in size from 10,000 in 1720 to 50,000 by 1830.

Soon the water supply from the river Leen became inadequate and was heavily contaminated with sewage and industrial wastes.  Epidemics of cholera and typhoid occurred, and whilst the cause was not fully understood, the appalling condition of the water supply was thought to be a contributor.

Papplewick Pumping Station was completed by Nottingham Corporation Water Department in 1884 and contains two 140 hp. James Watt rotative Beam Engines. They lifted water from the 200 foot deep well dug into the sandstone and supplied the city for 85 years, only ceasing regular operation in 1969.  Then electric pumps were fitted, which saved the labour involved in moving the necessary 2,000 tons of coal, and resulting ash, used each year.

Papplewick ceased regular operation in 1969 but remained on standby until 1972.  Two years later a preservation group took over the upkeep of the station, adding other steam powered engines from other local sites.

Papplewick Pumping Station was built to a fixed price contract but not all the money was used, so the surplus £1,500 was spent on elaborate decoration, including stain glass windows, brass decoration and unique terracotta.  Ibis were chosen as they appear when the Nile is in flood, and represent a period of abundance and fertility.

The gardens surrounding the Pumping Station are included in the English Heritage Register of Parks and Gardens.  These contain a fine collection of hollies.  The planting is predominately evergreen with either shiny or needle-like foliage which was able to withstand the effect of the soot from the 120 foot high chimney.

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