Barge No.9 Community Preservation Project
Bringing her back to life
The Barge No. 9 Community Preservation Project is an extraordinary initiative aimed at restoring and transforming a historic 1928 barge into a vibrant hub for our community in Lowestoft. This project goes beyond simply preserving a piece of maritime history; it seeks to create a unique museum, cafe, restaurant and event venue.
Our vision encompasses not only the restoration of the barge but also the establishment of Anchor Point House, which will provide essential support and personal development programs for those in need. Thanks to the dedication and passion of our volunteers and community members, we are making significant strides towards our goals, and we invite you to join us in this exciting journey of revitalisation and hope.
The Barge itself is owned privately by William Gilroy, Barge No.9 CIC is the volunteer labour force and community outreach.
What We Have Done So Far
Since the inception of the Barge No. 9 Community Preservation Project, we have made remarkable progress, thanks to the dedication and hard work of our volunteers and supporters. Here are some key achievements:
- Secure Funding: We have successfully raised over £120,000 through community donations, small grants, and contributions from our founder, Will Gilroy. We have received £60,000 of materials from local businesses
- Barge Restoration: Significant restoration work has been completed on the barge, including the initial structural repairs, ensuring the vessel is watertight and safe for use.
- Community Engagement: Over 40 volunteers, ranging from apprentices to seasoned tradesmen, have come together to contribute their skills and time, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
- Anchor Point House Development: Plans for Anchor Point House are underway, with the foundation of this community well-being centre established, providing a space for holistic workshops and support services.
Each step we’ve taken brings us closer to realising our vision for Barge No. 9 and the positive impact it will have on the community. We’re excited about what lies ahead as we continue our journey together!
What Needs to Be Done
As we move forward with the Barge No. 9 Community Preservation Project, there are several crucial steps remaining to fully realise our vision:
- Outfitting the Barge: The next phase involves transforming the barge into a functional restaurant and event space. This includes designing and installing kitchen fittings, dining areas, and facilities that create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
- Finding a Permanent Mooring: Securing a suitable and permanent mooring location for Barge No. 9 is essential for her long-term sustainability and operational success. We are actively seeking a location that offers easy access for the community and aligns with our mission.
These tasks are vital for completing the restoration of Barge No. 9 and ensuring it becomes a thriving venue that serves the needs of our community, promotes well-being, and supports future programming at Anchor Point House. With community involvement and support, we are confident that we can achieve our goals!
How you can help
The success of the Barge No. 9 Community Preservation Project relies on the generosity and involvement of our community members. Here are several ways you can contribute and support our efforts:
- Make a Donation: Financial contributions, whether large or small, can significantly impact our ability to complete critical phases of the project, including outfitting the barge and securing a permanent mooring. Every donation counts!
- Volunteer Your Time: We welcome individuals with various skills and backgrounds to join our team. Whether you have experience in carpentry, painting, or simply want to lend a hand, your time and effort can make a real difference.
- Corporate Sponsorship: If you represent a business, consider becoming a corporate partner. Donations of materials, labour, or financial support can help expedite our progress and strengthen our community ties.
- Spread the Word: Share our project with your friends, family, and social networks. Raising awareness about Barge No. 9 can attract more support and involvement, helping us reach a wider audience.
- Participate in Fundraising Events: Join us in organising or participating in local fundraising events. Your active participation can help us secure the necessary funds while fostering community spirit.
Project Completion Date
We are excited to announce that we expect the Barge No. 9 Community Preservation Project to be completed by summer 2026.
This timeline allows us to finalise the outfitting of the barge and secure a permanent mooring, ensuring that we can create a thriving restaurant and event space for the community. We appreciate the continued support and enthusiasm of our volunteers and partners as we work towards this goal!
Learn More About Barge No. 9's History
For a deeper understanding of Barge No. 9's rich history and its significance to Lowestoft, click the link below. Discover the fascinating stories behind this historic vessel and learn why preserving it is so vital to our community's heritage.
Our Supporters
Our Supporters, along side our volunteers have been vital to our success, providing essential grants, products, services, and premises. Their generous support fuels our mission to restore Barge No. 9, launch Anchor House and enhance community well-being. [More info - Partnering with us] [Partner Directory]
