Second phase of Great Laxey Wheel conservation gets underway

The wheel will continue to turn for the majority of works

The next phase of an award-winning project to conserve and repair the Great Laxey Wheel has begun.

Manx National Heritage has confirmed the latest works will include repointing and repainting the Lady Isabella’s iconic rod duct.

The T-Rocker, rods, bogies, associated timbers and iron works will also be repaired ready to set in motion, powered by the wheel once again. 

Designed by the Victorian engineer, Robert Casement, the wheel was completed in 1854 to pump water from the depths of the Laxey mines. 

The impressive 22.1m (72.6 feet) diameter structure found immediate popularity and has remained one of the Island’s most iconic and dramatic tourist attractions for 170 years.

John-Paul Walker, Historic Buildings Architect for Manx National Heritage said: “Manx National Heritage is pleased to confirm that the contract for completion of works was awarded to Isle of Man based CCJ Group. 

The latest phase of works will include repointing and repainting of the Lady Isabella’s iconic rod duct, the original of which featured an impressive series of 32 arches extending over 169 metres along Glen Mooar Valley.  The T-Rocker, rods, bogies, associated timbers and iron works will also be repaired ready to set in motion, powered by the wheel once again”. 

Derek Clarkson, Managing Director of CCJ Group added: “As a local company we are immensely proud to have secured the project and look forward to seeing the iconic waterwheel fully restored”.

MNH says the project offers a rare opportunity to study and work on one of the Isle of Man’s most treasured ancient monuments and the largest working historic water wheel in the world.

Members of the public will also have 'a once in a lifetime opportunity' to learn more about the conservation works in a series of guided tours, enabling visitors to experience works as they happen, with details to be announced in spring.

The Laxey Wheel will reopen to the public for the season on Thursday 28 March.

The wheel will continue to turn for the majority of works, with access to the wheel’s viewing platform available throughout the project.