Historic windmill set to reopen thanks to grants

A 221-year-old windmill is set to be restored and reopened thanks to more than £1.6m in funding.

John Webb's Windmill in Thaxted, Essex, was closed to the public in 2018 after eroding brickwork led to extensive internal damage.

However, grants from Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund have helped to secure the Grade II* listed landmark's future.

"Once restored, this historic mill will once again stand at the heart of Thaxted, bringing 200 years of local stories to life," said Trudi Hughes, a risk architect.

The windmill will be brought back into full working order when its sails, winding gear and internal milling machinery are repaired and restored.

It is hoped repairs to the brick tower will also halt the decaying process and protect the building from water leaks.

"This significant investment in Thaxted Mill is about more than preserving bricks and mortar – it's about keeping precious heritage skills alive and creating a vibrant community asset for generations to come," said Ms Hughes.

The windmill was built in 1804 for John Webb, a local businessman and farmer.

It operated for 100 years and is one of the only remaining windmills in the area.

The National Lottery Heritage Fund has pledged £1.3m to its restoration, with further donations from Historic England.

As part of the work, sensory experiences will be created and visitor access improved.

Mark Richards, secretary of the Thaxted Windmill Trust, said: "[This] will now enable the trust to realise their plans to secure the future of this much-loved landmark.

"The trustees are very grateful for this opportunity to restore the building and ensure that it remains a viable asset for all."

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