Additional funding agreed to help secure the future of historic mills in Lancashire

On 13 February 2020, the county council confirmed an annual £936,000 for the running costs of Queen Street Mill in Briercliffe and Helmshore Textile Mills for the next four years, helping to ensure their long term future.

The partnership led by the county council and the National Trust continues to explore options.

The county council and the National Trust currently have a memorandum of understanding to work together to find solutions for the future of the mills, which were reopened to the public by the council after a short period of closure due to budget cuts.

Ways in which the mills can generate income and minimise costs while also conserving the buildings and collections and providing public benefit are also being considered by the partnership.

This will enable potential operators or partners, including local community groups and businesses, to understand how they can be part of the future of the mills.

For more information view the report to Cabinet 11 July 2019.