Mutton’s Mill, near Halvergate, has recently undergone a major renovation project in partnership with the Broads Authority and City College Norwich. The mill, originally built in 1830, is the only working windmill in the Broads with an internal scoop wheel. Over 50 students from City College Norwich participated in the restoration, which aimed to bring the mill back to its near-original, working condition. The students were able to learn century-old techniques such as using lime mortar, linseed oil, and specialist carpentry and brickwork skills during the restoration process.
The restoration project received recognition at the Norwich and Norfolk Design and Craftsmanship Awards, where it was awarded for conservation and sustainability. Programme manager Andrew Farrell expressed his delight at the hard work of the young people involved in the project being acknowledged. The focus of the project was on training the next generation of craftspeople and inspiring them to work in the Broads, instilling them with new skills. The Broads wind pumps, the largest concentration of mills in the country, are facing a challenge due to a national shortage of millwrights and the gradual dilapidation of the structures themselves.
Mutton’s Mill has been restored to have four sails, and it retains much of its original 19th-century fabric. New timbers have been repaired and scarfed in as much as possible, and the restored mill is now one of the main focus points on the new Halvergate Mills trail. This trail also includes other notable mills such as Berney Arms Mill, High’s Mill, and Howard’s Mill. The trail aims to provide a rich experience for visitors interested in the history and heritage of mills in the Broads. To learn more about the new trail and the restoration of Mutton’s Mill, visit www.watermillsandmarshes.org.uk/trails/halvergate-mills-walk.
In conclusion, the restoration of Mutton’s Mill near Halvergate has been a significant project involving over 50 students from City College Norwich, in partnership with the Broads Authority. The restoration aimed to bring the mill back to its near-original, working condition and involved teaching students century-old techniques. The project was recognized for conservation and sustainability at the Norwich and Norfolk Design and Craftsmanship Awards. The restoration of Mutton’s Mill, with four sails and retaining much of its original 19th-century fabric, is now a focal point on the new Halvergate Mills trail, which aims to showcase the rich history and heritage of mills in the Broads.
