Wellington

Tone works is a site of national and international historical significance, with unique machinery dealing with the washing, drying and finishing of cloth produced at Tonedale Mill. Approached by Wellington Mills CIC, funded by Architectural Heritage Fund and Somerset Council, Thread were asked to conduct a feasibility study for Historic England, looking at the challenges around access as well as undertaking historic research to understand how it had been adapted over the years in order to advise on methodology going forward. 

As more information about the site became available through access we could continue to think laterally in our approaches for a strategy. We could then prioritise what works needed completing first, depending on the urgency of repairs. The site is next to the river, presenting possible flood risks and erosion into the water. The North light roof structure was particularly at risk of falling down and machine specialists were required for asbestos removal. There is a lot of vegetation in situ, meaning protecting wildlife and ecology is also vital to the cause.

By working with the client and the contractor collaboratively, we could forge the best approach, with repairs devised and designed on site with structural engineers and carpenters.