Industrial heritage museums merge to form new organisation

Markfield Beam Engine and Museum in Tottenham has teamed up with a venue in Walthamstow to form the Heritage and Communities Trust, reports Marco Marcelline

Two north-east London industrial heritage museums have merged to form a new umbrella organisation that promises “improved facilities and enhanced programming”.

Walthamstow Pumphouse Museum and Markfield Beam Engine and Museum in Tottenham have merged to form the Heritage and Communities Trust.

The merger, which was finalised on 31st January, means both museums will benefit from “shared resources and expertise” while retaining their individual names.

By merging into a trust, the Heritage and Communities Trust becomes the largest dedicated industrial heritage charity within Greater London in terms of public benefit and multi-site operation.

The museums, both two Victorian-era sewage pumping stations, will continue to offer free entry to visitors.

“By joining forces, we’re creating a stronger, more resilient organisation that can better preserve and celebrate our shared industrial heritage,” said Abdullah Seba, chief executive of the Heritage and Communities Trust. “Our visitors will benefit from enhanced programming, improved facilities, and a more comprehensive understanding of London’s industrial past.”

The Walthamstow Pumphouse Museum, which welcomes 17,000 visitors annually, is also home to community maker space The Tool House and Supperclub.tube, a pop-up dining experience in a decommissioned Victoria Line carriage.

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