PERMISSION has been given to allow specialist engineers to carry out urgent work to preserve a 400-year-old mill.
Worsbrough Mill is a unique landmark within the borough, standing as one of the last fully-functioning mills in Yorkshire and is still capable of grinding 16 tonnes of grain a year through water power provided by the nearby River Dove.
However the future of the historic site - which will celebrate its 400th birthday this year having been in use since 1625 - was plunged into doubt as urgent work is needed to repair the main shaft that drives the mill’s mechanism.
After Barnsley Council stepped in to provide the cash required, planning consent - given the mill’s listed status - has now been granted in order to speed up the work.
A planning statement said: “The proposed works are the replacement of the mill’s upright shaft and the removal of three metal restraints which currently fix the sprattlebeam at the base of the shaft in place rather than allowing adjustment of the bottom bearing of the shaft to take place.
“The shaft will be made of oak and replace the current one which has cracked and warped over time and is now, according to Malcolm Cooper (millwright), causing vibration within the mill’s machinery which is being transferred into the building.
“A number of repairs/adjustments/replacements have been undertaken since July 2021 but these have not solved the issue.
“In May 2024 Malcolm undertook another series of tests, including disengaging both sets of stones from the machinery, and concluded that the upright shaft needs to be replaced.
“He has also recommended that three metal bands that hold the sprattlebeam that supports the upright shaft be removed to allow full adjustment of the shaft by use of paired wedges, as would have been the case originally.
“Before installation the metal bands holding the supporting sprattlebeam will be removed and paired wedges made to allow future adjustment.
“Although Worsbrough Mill is a Grade II*-listed building this replacement will have zero impact on the building.
The council announced that, due to the urgency of essential repairs and an outpouring of public support, it would provide the required £40,000.
Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “The funding will ensure the vital repairs to Worsbrough Mill.
“This will build on donations already given by the public and local businesses following the tremendous efforts of Barnsley Museums and Heritage Trust.
“The council remains committed to preserving our local history and we look forward to the successful completion of this important project.”
