2025: A new year, and a very big funding bid….

This project is navigated almost entirely by volunteers. We have been able to complete essential feasibility studies (previously expected to be incorporated into a funding bid) through the generous donations of individuals and local businesses , and numerous pro-bono consultations.

This support and investment in Kilsby as an enduring asset for the community has enabled us to finalise specifications and costs for the restoration. This is the key information required when applying for funds to cover these costs - so - the funding application is on the brink of submission as I write!

One of the above mentioned pro-bono consultants is Jim Hutchinson., photographed here at the tiller of his boat, Butty Hampton….

Jim is a font of knowledge, having already restored Hampton, a butty from the same fleet as Kilsby. He’s not only ‘been there and done that’, but he actually wrote a book about it! 

And then he decided to donate all proceeds from the book to support our ongoing restoration efforts!

What a legend.

Rare, early 20th-century narrowboats like Kilsby played a crucial role in the UK’s history, but many of these boats are now lost, or at risk. The people who can speak authentically about these times are also passing away.

If you are a person who is interested in joining the conversation about how Kilsby will be restored, from a repurpose vs heritage design perspective, you might like to take a look below at Jim’s proposals for the Design Principles behind Kilsby’s transformation. 

Design Principles.

The proposed design principles are as follows

a) To maintain the historic external appearance of Kilsby. The later modification of the stern

will be removed and rebuilt to its original design.

b) To retain the clothed-up hold

c) To retain most of the tradition cargo hold with authentic running gear (option 1)

d) To construct an insulated steel undercloth main cabin with large viewing windows (option 2)

e) To have a flexible space in the main cabin to be adapted as required for trips, small

performances and miscellaneous community use.

f) To have a decked over area for performances to audiences on the bank

g) To enable easy access to the boat, including disabled/wheelchair access.

h) To ensure an environmentally friendly propulsion system.

i) To reconstruct the back cabin and display it to visitors in its original appearance.

j) To use traditional craftsmanship and techniques in the restoration.

k) To use established and well-regarded boat restorers for the steelwork, propulsion system and

running gear.

l) To involve volunteers in the restoration, especially with the reconstruction of back cabin and

the lining out of the main cabin.

m) To pay attention to external details such as the ropework, cloths, lettering etc.