The Crossness Engines Trust has a new Chair as the former MP for Erith and Thamesmead, John Austin, steps down. The Trust is responsible for the restoration of the mighty beam engines which were built over 150 years ago to solve London's sewerage problem following the Great Stink of the 1850s John Austin, who has chaired the Trust for the past 5 years, announced his decision at the Trust's Board meeting last week. He will be succeeded by former Bexley councillor and historian, Peter Catterall.

John Austin said: "Obviously I am very sad to be leaving but having moved away from the area I have found it increasingly difficult to give The Trust the time and attention it needs at this crucial stage in its development.

It is one of the most prestigious projects in south east London and includes some of the finest buildings in Bexley - indeed one of only two Grade 1 listed industrial buildings in south London. This is in addition to the main attraction, the largest operating beam engine in Europe, if not the world.

"There have been enormous changes in the period that I have been privileged to Chair the organisation. During that time we have undergone a governance review, successive business plans and a restructuring of the board with the addition of outside trustees. We also have appointed our first paid workers and have opened a permanent exhibition on the Great Stink. We are in the process of applying for accredited Museum status. We have also negotiated our own dedicated access to the site and car park provision with Thames Water and we have acquired the only surviving steam locomotive from the Royal Arsenal, The Woolwich, which is undergoing restoration, with the first track being laid later this year.

"The transformation from historical restoration project to public museum has been a long and difficult one and there are many challenges ahead. It is now an appropriate time for a fresh pair of hands to guide the project forward. As my vice chair, Peter Catterall has been a tower of strength and has chaired the finance committee. I have every confidence that he will safely lead the Trust through its next stages to achieve accredited Museum status. It is a great project which owes its success to the many volunteers who have lovingly restored the engines, the Victorian ironwork and the buildings and is the jewel in the crown of south east London’s industrial heritage.”

Submitted by John Austin