Architect Advocates for Preservation of ‘Symbolic’ Cooling Towers

A lecturer in architecture has stated that cooling towers slated for demolition represent an “icon of post-war power generation” and that alternative uses for their future should be explored. Professor Richard Brook expressed that the planned removal of the four remaining water cooling towers at Fiddler’s Ferry from the skyline would be a “travesty.” He noted that local residents “fondly” referred to them as “the cloud factory” due to the steam that once emanated from their tops. The Lancaster University lecturer further added that with fewer cooling towers remaining nationwide, “their heritage value becomes more important.” Professor Brook indicated his desire for the towers to be incorporated into an an ecological and industrial park, where individuals would be “invited to be in and amongst the structures.” Fiddler’s Ferry became a prominent feature of the Cheshire skyline after commencing full operation in 1973. The facility’s closure in 2020 aligned with government initiatives to cease coal-fired electricity generation by 2025, and four of its eight cooling towers were dismantled in December 2023. Peel Natural Resources and Energy (NRE) acquired the Fiddler’s Ferry site in 2021, with intentions to develop the area for new residential properties and commercial purposes. Speaking to BBC North West Tonight, Professor Brook remarked: “Obviously, it’s right that we are bringing coal fire power stations to the end of their life to do with carbon reduction and climate change, but equally we should think about what these towers symbolise.” He continued, stating, “Lots of them have already been demolished across the country,” and “As less and less remain standing, the question of their heritage value becomes more important.” He concluded by saying, “I’m not the only person who has an association or a memory attached to these places.” A specific date for the demolition of the final four cooling towers has not yet been determined.