Tower Windmill conservation

Due to the extensive nature of the work, the specialist millwright skills required, and the costs involved, we need to undertake the repairs on a phased basis (see below). We will also need to secure Listed Building Consent for any work we want to undertake, as the windmill is a Grade II* listed building.

Fanstage platform

Phase 1: The fanstage platform will be removed first as a precaution against parts of the platform falling during high winds. The emergency removal of the fanstage platform is scheduled for the week commencing 23 September 2024.

Cap consolidation

Phase 2: The next phase of work will be focused on making the cap water-tight and improving the ventilation throughout the windmill. These measures, together with repairs to the roof covering of the extension part of the building to the side of the windmill tower, are intended to alleviate problems associated with water ingress and damp in the building. This phase is planned for the first half of 2025.

Sail repairs

Phase 3: The final stage of the initial programme of repair work will address the condition of the sails. We will be looking at options for these repairs, which may require the removal of the sails for a period. As part of this phase of work we will also carry out key joinery repairs to the façade. This phase is planned for late 2025 or early 2026.

Subsequent work and future use of the windmill

Phase 4: Completion of the first three phases of work is a prerequisite to a fourth and final phase that will be needed to complete the conservation and repair of this important building and bring the windmill back into use.

The scope of this final phase will depend on the future use of the windmill. As the phases of work are completed, we’ll be able to share more about the future use of the windmill. We are exploring all options in order to make the conservation and repair of the windmill financially viable.