PLANS have been submitted to add QR code plates on to the Sankey Viaduct to enable people to learn about its historical significance.

A planning application, submitted by Dr Barrie Pennington, seeks listed building consent for the creation of two QR code plates at the Nine Arches.

These would be "under the arch known as Number 3 as this archway has an existing footpath/cycle path directly under it".

Plans state: "The purpose of the QR code plates is to provide instant access to the website and database of the National Transport Trust.

"There, the public can explore the history and significance of the Canal and Railway Revolutions and the part played by the Sankey Canal and Sankey Viaduct as pioneering works of engineering.

"It is proposed to position the plates directly underneath the two existing Red Wheel heritage plaques placed there to recognise the importance of the canal and viaduct thereby acknowledging the unique positioning of these two highly symbolic structures in one location".

St Helens Star: Red Wheel plaques were unveiled at the site earlier this yearRed Wheel plaques were unveiled at the site earlier this year

The Sankey Canal was the first industrial canal in England completed some four years before the Bridgewater Canal and in no small way contributed to the growth of Liverpool as a major port by providing the quantities of coal needed in a speedy fashion.

The Sankey Viaduct, the first major crossing of its kind, built by George Stephenson between 1828 and 1830.

The bridge, built to let trains cross above the Sankey Canal, has international significance as the world’s earliest major railway viaduct still in use.

The application is on public consultation until September 8 and a determination deadline has been set for October 11.