The Crushing Works is a massive structure that is as large as a house...
More experienced divers will enjoy exploring the base of the Crushing Works...
A large metal frame work runs along the top of the Crushing Works...
Rising up from a maximum depth of 22m, the Crushing Works is one of the most interesting dive attractions at Vobster Quay. Carved out of the side of the quarry wall, it's a massive structure that should not be missed by any visiting diver.
Ideal for divers for all experience levels, beginners can take in the shear size of the Crushing Works whilst experienced divers will enjoy exploring its lower depths. For those with overhead environment training, a couple of small holes in the base of the structure provide some more challenging swim-thrus.
Running out along its length at the top of the structure is an intricate metal framework which offers a series of fun swim-thrus ideal for the less experienced - care must be taken to tuck hoses in close to the body to avoid snagging the framework, though.
The location of the crushing works makes it an ideal detour for divers visiting the aircraft, lying as it does within very close proximity of the aircraft tail section and industrial dryer. For visiting instructors, the top of the crushing works provides an ideal platform to run through skills and drills whilst still providing students with visual interest during their dives.
The Crushing Works has a pair of shotlines tied off as a trapeze half way along the metal framework that runs the full length of the structure, allowing easy ascent and descent for those still finding their way around the quarry.
SAFETY FIRST: The holes in the base of the crushing works should only to be entered by divers with overhead environment training. These areas are very confined and visibility can be reduced substantially if the bottom is kicked up!
Some footage from Emma Farrell this weekend, showing the free divers in action. Great action shoots, well done.
Things have certainly moved on in the last 40 years but it's good to see that even in the mid-1970s, Vobster Quay was still a popular place to train divers! Thanks to Neil Withers for sharing this fabulous photo...
