The future of Boot Mill in the Eskdale Valley (commonly referred to as Eskdale Mill) is secure following the decision of the county council's Cabinet to sell the Mill and cottage to the local Eskdale Mill and Heritage Trust, a registered charity.
The Mill, regarded as an excellent example of an historic water powered corn mill, is one of very few such sites still surviving in this country. Records show that milling has taken place on the site for over 500 years and that the present group of buildings is at least 300 years old. The historical importance of the Mill is recognised by its national Listed Building entry of Grade II* ( two star).
Under the terms of the sale the Trust will:
- Preserve the historic fabric of the Mill for future generations.
- Continue to run the Mill as a visitor attraction.
- Maintain the employment and tenancy of the existing Mill manager.
- Pay the county council, and therefore the public purse, £102,000.
County councillor, Liz Mallinson, Cabinet spokesperson for Access to Services says:
"After many twists and turns the future of Eskdale Mill is now settled. Following the latest round of discussions and offers, the County Council is pleased to accept the offer made by the Eskdale Mill and Heritage Trust. Today's news draws to a close the council's long custodianship of this special property. I am confident the Trust will take the Mill on to a new stage of development and secure its future as one of the most unusual and interesting heritage attractions in Cumbria."
Peter van Zeller, correspondent to the Eskdale Mill & Heritage Trust says:
"We are delighted at the news that the county council has decided to sell this historic place, dating back to the reign of the first Queen Elizabeth, to our Charitable Trust.
The council deserves recognition for having first preserved, then managed Eskdale Mill for the past generation. However in times of change the moment is right for a new form of organisation dedicated to care for the Mill onwards through the 21st century.
This small Water Mill in its delightful setting is now a unique part of our local rural heritage and a significant visitor attraction in Eskdale.The Trust aims that it should continue to be conserved, operated and developed in a sensitive and sympathetic way so that future generations can enjoy its special character. The Trust now intends to set up a Society of Friends to support the Mill and would like to invite anyone who is interested to get in touch."
People interested in joining the Society of Friends should contact Eskdale Mill and Heritage Trust, c/o Bowerbank, Eskdale Green, Cumbria CA 19 1TD.