19 December 2020
Weir is washed away
The flooding damaged the weir and finally washed most of it away. This photo, also taken by ranger George, shows the extent of the damage to the weir once much of it was washed away.
Torrential rain and flooding destroyed the weir on the Morden stream in late 2020, causing the water to stop flowing down the leat to Cotehele Mill. Without this water supply, the wheel at the mill can’t turn and the hydro-electric plant is unable to generate electricity. However, a project is now under way to get water running to the leat so that Cotehele Mill can continue working.
The weir on the Morden stream was over 200 years old. It acted as a barrier, directing water through the leat to Cotehele Mill where it turned the wheel.
Most of the weir was damaged and washed away during the floods. The hydropower plant at the mill was also flooded, but didn’t suffer major damage.
19 December 2020
The flooding damaged the weir and finally washed most of it away. This photo, also taken by ranger George, shows the extent of the damage to the weir once much of it was washed away.
Although European Smelt and Allis Shad are present in the River Tamar, further research suggests that there is a possibility that both may not venture this far up the stream. As they are significant species of conservation concern, additional survey work will take place from spring 2023 to ascertain their presence. This will include DNA testing with results expected in the autumn.
The outcome from these surveys will impact the design and construction of the weir structure, however its necessary to take this step to ensure any decisions we make do not harm species which are already under significant threat and that the structure is good for the long term.
Being within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) there are limitations on when any construction work can take place to ensure wildlife is protected. This means it is unlikely that we will be able to use water to operate the wheel at the mill until late 2024
All the paths leading to and from the weir are open to enjoy. However during survey works there might be times when access might be limited.
Find out when Cotehele Mill is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Cotehele Mill is a 19th-century watermill that still produces flour from local grain today. It also has baking demonstrations, Victorian workshops and local wildlife to explore.
There's lots to discover at the Cotehele estate. Miles of pathways lead you through ancient woodland, past a historic chapel, and to an important Victorian quay.
We believe that nature, beauty and history are for everyone. That’s why we’re supporting wildlife, protecting historic sites and more. Find out about our work.
Find out more about the funding the National Trust receives from grants, and the projects it has helped support.