We have written the content for nine interpretation panels, seven trail panels and a trail booklet to the dams and reservoirs of the Upper Derwent Valley.
The focus is on the building of the dams, a navvy village known ass Tin Town, key moments in the history of the reservoirs, a submerged village and the current use of the water.
Interpretive writing
A series of panels at the visitor centre introduce the water supply story of the valley, while further panels interpret specific locations within easy walking distance of the centre.
At Tin Town we have written a welcome and orientation panel and a series of seven mini panels that interpret key features including navvy dormitories, a recreation hall, hospital and canteen. These features are all difficult to see and are interpreted through the use of archive photos taken from the mini panel locations.
Approach
The project team comprised Minerva Heritage as project manager, The Way Design and Chris Brammall metal artist. We began with a site visit. We then consulted with Severn Trent Water and Peak District National Park staff and volunteers to discuss visitor use of the valley, the important locations and key stories. Based on these consultations, we created an interpretive theme and a list of stories mapped to locations. Once these were agreed, we developed the messagings hierarchy for each element and drafted the text. We also helped with image research.
Details
Client: Severn Trent Water
Subcontracted to: Minerva Heritage
Duration: August 2019 – July 2021