New views for visitors as project set to protect Norfolk Broads from climate change and flooding

Replacing ageing pumping station infrastructure 

Without the pumping stations and drainage network, 6,300 hectares of lowlands would be subject to permanent flooding; causing the loss of important designated habitat, arable land, and woodland, as well as impacting local communities and infrastructure. 

Thomas Jones, Project Delivery Engineer, for the Water Management Alliance, said: 

“The replacement of Horsey pumping station represents the start of a significant programme of investment by the Broads Internal Drainage Board to replace ageing pumping station infrastructure across the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads, the majority of which were built in the 1950s and are reaching the end of their serviceable life.  

“Collectively, Internal Drainage Board pumping stations protect tens of thousands of hectares of low-lying land including internationally designated habitat, as well as protecting people, properties, businesses, roads, railways and infrastructure from permanent flooding. More information about this and other projects can be found on the Water Management Alliance news webpage.”

New temporary crossing over the staithe 

A temporary crossing has been installed across the staithe which will remain in place while work is carried out on the new electric pumping station.

As well as ensuring our site is safe during these works, the bridge offers a view of the windpump from the centre of the staithe that most visitors won’t have had before.

Peter Nicholson, General Manager for the National Trust’s Norfolk Coast & Broads properties, comments: 

“Visitors can still look forward to experiencing everything that makes Horsey Windpump such a special place. Whether that’s taking in the spectacle of this iconic building and learning about its history, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding Broadland landscape, catching glimpses of wildlife which if you are lucky might include spotting Swallowtail butterflies, or simply relaxing and soaking it all up with a cup of tea and a scone. 

“What is different this year is that we have this essential project to replace the 1950s pumping station happening nearby. Visitors will notice construction activity and there will be some temporary changes on site to ensure visitor safety, including a temporary footbridge across the staithe. We are working very closely with the contractors to keep any disruption to a minimum, but it is advisable to check our website before you visit." 

From wind and steam to diesel and electric power 

The first wind-powered drainage mill was built on the Horsey site in 1816, with the current structure built between 1911 and 1912. By this time, wind power was already being supplemented by steam power, with the first steam engine introduced on site in 1912.  

Wind-powered drainage at Horsey came to a dramatic end in 1943, when the windpump was struck by lightning. A diesel-powered pump replaced the steam pump during the Second World War, before the switch was made to electricity to power the pump in 1957.   

Mr Nicholson continues,  

“This project provides a unique opportunity for visitors to appreciate the historical importance of the windpump alongside the modern technology that has been designed to help with flood prevention in an era of climate change. 

“Visitors have been very interested in what is going on, appreciating the new on-site information board about the project, as well talking to our brilliant team of staff and volunteers who are always happy to answer any questions.”    

Start of construction work on the new pumping station

Project contractor BAM Nuttall Ltd has been carrying out enabling works for the construction of the new pumping station on land next to Horsey Windpump.  

The work completed to date has included creating a permanent new access track that will lead to the new pumping station, a temporary site compound, and a new culvert to channel water from the dyke to the new pumping station. 

The next phase of the project, due to start in the coming weeks, will see construction work begin on the pumping station itself. The project is due to be completed in Spring 2026. 

Planning your visit 

The National Trust and the Broads Internal Drainage Board are working closely to keep any disruption from the works to a minimum, but it is anticipated that there may be some days when the windpump’s normal opening hours may have to change.  

Anyone planning a visit to Horsey Windpump should check for changes to opening times before they visit.