An individual stands in a vast, abstract cave with towering rock walls and a distant light source, creating a sense of scale and exploration. Shadows and textures emphasize the cave's depth and mystery.

Step Shaft Mine

West Midlands, England

2006

Client Dudley MBC

Buildings · Culture & Leisure · Infrastructure · Viewpoints

This project, carried out in conjunction with Knight Architects, proposes a bold transformation of historic underground canals and limestone mines in the West Midlands into a world-class visitor experience. Visitors arrive via narrowboat beneath Dudley, disembarking at the UK’s largest underground canal basin.

A sectional architectural drawing of a viewing platform carved into a rock formation with people standing on it, architecture by MOXON Architects.

New walkways lead to the 20m-high Step Shaft Cavern, illuminated to showcase its geology. Two new attractions enhance the experience and accessibility of the site: the 'Minstrel Gallery,' featuring immersive lighting and projections, and a 200m funicular lift connecting the mine to the Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve 70m above.

Engineering challenges, including mine stabilization and new underground spaces, were tackled by Arup, Geodesign, Gifford, Scott Wilson, and specialist contractor Forkers.