The Restoration So Far
Structural surveys undertaken in 2009 and 2013 highlighted numerous problems with the Mill, including issues with both the brick work and timber parts of the building. The state of the building at the beginning of 2015 had worsened due to water getting in, which caused the building to rot. More cracks were appearing in the brickwork, and health and safety issues with the floor to the canteen area (caused by rotting timbers) and unstable rainwater goods were also an issue.
In 2015, the Mickle Trafford Mill volunteers carried out a much needed programme of emergency repair works. The first phase of repair works aimed to make the building water tight and stop the rot. The roof was repaired, as were the rainwater goods. Remedial repair of the brickwork was undertaken and timber elements replaced. We put a monitoring system in place to keep an eye on the issues and still continue to monitor the state of the structure.
The work was undertaken by Dick Hodgkinson, working closely with the conservation department at Chester West and Chester Council. At the time, Dick was a volunteer leader at the mill, and luckily for us, also an expert in historic building conservation. Dick has since become a Trustee on the board of the charity and continues to monitor the condition of building.
We try and involve our conservation volunteers in as much of the site upkeep and maintenance as possible. Recently, the Trust successfully carried out a volunteer project to treat the woodworm at the Mill.
The Next Steps
The Trust are now undertaking health and safety improvements to the site. We aim to get the building open for guided tours again by the autumn.
We are also currently in the process of applying for funds to carry out an options appraisal for the building, so we can decide how the building should be used in the future and how it can best serve the local community. The results of this study will be published here for your comments.
Community Consultation- Have Your Say!
How do you think the building should be used in the future? Whether you are a local resident, visiting from afar, or are a mill enthusiast, we want your opinions on the future use of the site.
Please write to us via the below link. Leave us a message with your thoughts about the site.