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Mill's Second Life Generates £49.6M Boost
23 Jan
Summary
- Restored mill generated economic benefits worth £49.6 million.
- The project created 62 new jobs and attracted 18,340 visitors.
- The regeneration of the 200-year-old building won 18 awards.
Shrewsbury's Flaxmill Maltings, a pioneering structure renowned as the world's first iron-framed building, has undergone a remarkable regeneration, injecting an estimated £49.6 million into the local economy. Historic England spearheaded the £32 million restoration, transforming the 200-year-old mill into offices, cultural spaces, a community cafe, and a visitor attraction.
This initiative has demonstrably boosted economic activity, creating 62 new jobs and attracting 18,340 visitors within the past year. The project has also been recognized with 18 national and international awards, including RIBA and Europa Nostra accolades, and has seen the main mill removed from the Heritage at Risk register.
Duncan Wilson, former chief executive of Historic England, highlighted the project's success as a valuable model for future heritage-led regeneration nationwide. The Heritage Lottery Fund significantly supported the effort, contributing £20.7 million, with its chief executive, Eilish McGuinness, commending its role in revitalizing historic buildings and benefiting the community.
