A LASER scanning system is to be used to help save the last remaining salt works in the country.

Northwich is home to the Lion Salt Works and a project by The Lion Salt Works Trust to regenerate the site is currently being undertaken.

A £22,000 grant from English Heritage is funding the laser scanning survey by APR Services that will scan the buildings and determine repairs.

Results from the survey enable architects to formulate an informed repair plan and transform it into a visitor centre.

Andrew Fielding, the project director for the Lion Salt Works Trust, will be overseeing the project.

Mr Fielding said: "The salt works is preserved as a scheduled ancient monument

"It is the last surviving example of a salt pan salt works in the country and it is important that we preserve it.

"This building was not built to last but the fact that it has lasted more than 100 years is great in itself and from another historical point of view it shows us how ordinary workers earned their living."

Elsie Barber, a resident from Leftwich, is very enthusiastic about the project.

Mrs Barber said: "I can remember when the salt works were in operation, my children used to come to see it and it is part of Northwich's history and I feel strongly that we have got to get it working again.

"I want to see it working again as it is very interesting to see how the whole salt making process works."

It is hoped, if all goes well, regeneration could start within the next twelve months.

jdriscoll@guardiangrp.co.uk