Heritage site to undergo renovation
Derbyshire’s Cromford Mills is to undergo a £2m refurbishment following investment from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).
The site, known as “the birthplace of the modern factory system” is to be transformed into the northern gateway to the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
The largest of the Mills’ buildings will be turned into an interactive visitor and exhibition centre, acting as the information hub for all of the industrial heritage landmarks in the Derwent Valley. New staff will also be employed to lead activity programmes for schools.
The conservation of the mill building will also include the repair of the four upper floors, to be brought back into use as managed workspace units for a mix of creative and other innovative industries.
Emma Sayer, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund East Midlands, said: “The Cromford Mills complex was the birthplace of the factory system, and is therefore a vital part of our national heritage. This project will ensure the preservation of this iconic building by creating a centre where visitors will be able to learn about and explore the wider world heritage site.
“At the same time, local businesses will be given a boost by the creation of new managed workspaces. This is a really exciting project that will have huge benefit for the local community.”
