T&W’s lofty ambitions took another big step towards realisation last weekend, as we completed the purchase of our first land base – Shoregate Wharf, Upchurch.
It’s been a whirlwind sale – it was only at the end of the sailing season that the previous owners approached us to say they were looking to sell, provided T&W could raise the funds by end of November…
We’re still a growing organisation, with limited resources, so at first did not think we could achieve it in time, but thanks to some incredible support from our patrons, friends and family, we got over the line.
The wharf itself is in a rural location, nestled amongst the orchards of the surrounding countryside. It comes with an on site workshop, boat storage, meeting room and living quarters.
Picture: Nestled amongst the Upchurch orchards
Historically, the dock was built for barges to transport farm produce and then became home to a small boat club when it was no longer required for this purpose.
The late Eric Gransden, Ed’s Grandfather, kept a boat here after the war and 4 generations of the family have now used the wharf and it’s surrounding waters, making the purchase a natural step for T&W.
The site is largely up and running, but does require extensive dredging before it becomes really useful.
We still plan to maintain our current berth at Lower Halstow, but this new site will ensure there is a dedicated site for smacks and barges on the Medway, providing much needed security and a space where maintenance and restoration can be carried out.
It’s a big milestone towards T&W’s aim of a sustainable future for these ships and we look forward to welcoming you to Shoregate in due course.