Norfolk Mutton's Mill awarded for conservational excellence

Mutton's Mill, near Halvergate, has undergone extensive renovation work, with more than 50 City College Norwich students getting involved in the heritage project, partnered by the Broads Authority and the college.

The mill, originally built in 1830, is unique in the Broads as the only working windmill with an internal scoop wheel. With the help of more than 50 City College Norwich students, the mill has been restored to near-original and working condition.

During the restoration, students learned century-old techniques, including using lime mortar, linseed oil and specialist carpentry and brickwork skills.

The team behind the restoration - which was part of the Water, Mills and Marshes: Broads Landscape Partnership - received awards for conservation and sustainability at the Norwich and Norfolk Design and Craftmanship Awards, held at the Norwich Assembly House on November 16.

Mutton's Mill restored with four sails. Picture - Broads Authority (Image: Broads Authority)Programme manager Andrew Farrell said: “We are delighted to see the hard work of young people and the team acknowledged with yet another award.

“The focus of the project has always been on training the next generation of craftspeople, instilling new skills, and inspiring them to work in the Broads."

The Broads wind pumps are the largest concentration of mills in the country, with over 60 still standing.

However, a national shortage of millwrights (experts in the restoration of historic mills) and the gradual dilapidation of the structures themselves have meant that the wind pumps and the valuable skills needed to keep them alive are slowly disappearing.

FLASHBACK: Mutton's Mill before its restoration. Picture - iWitness/Mike Morcher (Image: iWitness/Mike Morcher)Mutton's Mill retains much of its original 19th-century fabric, and new timbers have been repaired and scarfed in as much as possible. 

The restored mill is one of the main focus points on the new Halvergate Mills trail, which also passes Berney Arms Mill, High’s Mill and Howard’s Mill. 

For more information about the new trail, visit www.watermillsandmarshes.org.uk/trails/halvergate-mills-walk