Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet Dam © Ian M Spooner
Deep in the heart of Sheffield, vital restoration is underway at Abbeydale Dam – an 18th-century structure that once powered one of the most complete water-driven industrial works in the world. Esh Construction has secured a £1.3m contract to repair and future-proof the historic dam, located within Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, a Scheduled Monument and flagship heritage attraction.
For centuries, Abbeydale Dam played a crucial role in generating hydropower to drive waterwheels and forging hammers in Sheffield’s early metalworking era. But deterioration, particularly a severe leak detected in the North East corner two years ago, posed an immediate risk to both its structural safety and its hydropower heritage. Emergency measures temporarily lowered water levels and reduced pressure, but a permanent solution was essential.
Now, Esh Construction is deploying its specialist heritage engineering skills to restore stability, reinstate water retention, and protect the dam’s historic hydropower capability.
“Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet is a unique and historically significant site,” said Michael Sherrard, Construction Manager at Esh Construction. “Esh is proud to bring its expertise in heritage restoration to ensure this landmark remains safe and operational for generations to come.”
Engineering a heritage recovery
Following an extensive year-long investigation phase, Esh – with JC Consulting –designed a comprehensive programme of works. The restoration includes traditional stonemasonry to rebuild and repoint displaced walls, installation of clay linings and waterproof membranes to prevent future seepage, and precise grouting to fill voids and reinforce weakening structures.
One of the unique engineering challenges lies in underpinning the working forge building near the spillway into the River Sheaf. To stabilise the structure, engineers will fill the substructure void using concrete bagwork and grout injections – preserving its original form while strengthening its foundation.
Given the dam’s Scheduled Monument status, all operations are being carried out under stringent Historic England consent and with permits from the Environment Agency. A temporary causeway across the reservoir creates dry construction access while ensuring water retention remains largely undisturbed.
Respecting hydropower heritage at Abbeydale Dam
The project is not just about structural repair; it is about preserving one of the UK’s finest examples of water-powered industry. Once complete, the dam will continue to supply water to the Hamlet’s working waterwheels – vital for education, tourism, and live demonstrations of historical hydropower generation.
Kim Streets, Chief Executive at Sheffield Museums, emphasised the significance of the site: “The Hamlet is the most complete example of an integrated water-powered industrial works in existence. The leak in the dam put this unique historic site at significant risk, and we’re grateful to Sheffield City Council and Esh for their vital work to protect it.”
Completion on the horizon
Works will take place during Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet’s winter closure and are expected to conclude by Summer 2026. Alongside the dam repairs, Sheffield Museums will complete visitor improvements funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, including a new welcome hub and timber play area.
Councillor Ben Miskell highlighted the wider value of the project: “This repair programme tackles long-standing structural challenges and provides the stability needed for the future. We’re proud to deliver improvements that respect the dam’s historic character, enhance public safety, and protect its legacy.”
Once restored, the waterwheels will turn again – bringing Sheffield’s hydropower past back to life.
Sign up for our weekly news round-up!