New Lanark World Heritage Site is excited to welcome a new group of community volunteers and placement students to participate in various projects at the historic site. The volunteers and students will assist with a range of activities, from helping school pupils to hydro engineering and restoring a beloved exhibit. The site, recognised by Unesco, has partnered with educational institutions such as New College Lanarkshire to engage volunteers and students in supporting and preserving the unique heritage of the site.
One of the major projects the volunteers will be involved in is the restoration of the historic 1911 Petrie & Co steam engine, allowing visitors to witness its operational action once again. Additionally, they will be rejuvenating and maintaining the tranquil roof garden at the site. The community volunteers, numbering 16, have already started contributing across different areas including collections care, event support and mechanical maintenance, and have received specialized conservation training from Industrial Museums Scotland.
New Lanark’s student placement initiative, set to begin in January, offers students tailored learning opportunities in fields like museum studies, engineering, marketing, and tourism. Mairi Nicolson, head of Lanarkshire Business School at New College Lanarkshire, expressed enthusiasm for the work placements, citing the enriching experience it will bring to students and the chance to apply their learning in one of Scotland’s most significant heritage sites.
Recent recruit Terry Joiner shared her positive experience as a volunteer, emphasising how it has given her retirement a sense of structure and purpose. She highlighted the joy of interacting with schoolchildren and visitors, and the privilege of being part of preserving the site for future generations. The staff at New Lanark commended the invaluable enthusiasm and expertise of the volunteers and students, noting their significant contributions to the site’s ongoing projects.
In collaboration with members of the Men’s Shed based at the World Heritage site, volunteers, students, and staff are working together to revitalize the roof garden, focusing on seasonal planting, biodiversity initiatives, and sustainable maintenance. The gardening team plans to participate in next summer’s Scottish garden scheme, with proceeds going to local charities. Kate Lapping, head of heritage at New Lanark, expressed gratitude for the dedication of volunteers and students, acknowledging their positive impact on preserving the historic site.
For those interested in getting involved in volunteer and placement opportunities at New Lanark, more information can be found on their website at www.newlanark.org/get-involved.
In summary, New Lanark World Heritage Site is embracing the contribution of community volunteers and placement students in various projects aimed at preserving and enhancing the unique heritage of the site. The volunteers and students play a crucial role in restoration efforts, conservation activities, and garden revitalization, showcasing their passion and dedication to safeguarding this historic landmark for future generations.