I would certainly be interested in a conference on engine houses, whether mining and/or otherwise, for mutual benefit.
Just a few years ago I got involved with a group very keen to gain access to underground workings on a lead vein in the North of England and as usual I was suitably impressed by their knowledge of the local geology, shoring up tunnels, swinging on ropes and experience of crawling in the mud beneath most of the surrounding country. Whilst the group acknowledged the importance of the enormous engine house ruin on the site, it appeared to be low down the priority list and the group's interpretation of the remains was distinctly poor.
That group's knowledge of the effects of Listing or Scheduling was also poor so such a proposed conference would hopefully have the effect of generally increasing the awareness of such legislation as well.
Regards, Simon.
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