Nance Mill Engines Preservation Association Awarded £57,780 for Site Improvements

The Nance Mill Engines Preservation Association has secured £57,780 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, delivered by Cornwall Council’s Community Levelling Up Programme, part of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme.

New Facilities to Support the Community

The funding will go towards building new accessible facilities at the historic Nance Mill site, helping to strengthen community engagement and promote environmental sustainability.

Plans include a new meeting and welfare facility alongside an eco-friendly composting toilet block. The upgrades will replace ageing infrastructure and provide essential amenities for both association members and the public.

The new meeting room will be a flexible space for changing, seminars, exhibitions, and small gatherings. A new kitchen will also enhance the association’s popular Open Days, supporting catering, cake sales, and volunteers.

The composting toilet block will feature two unisex units, including one with disabled access, using waterless systems and rainwater harvesting for sustainable waste management.

“A Great Step Forward”

Trustee Keith Billington said: “Our members and volunteers, who are essential to Nance Mill’s work, currently have limited toileting and sub-standard break facilities. This lack of infrastructure also restricts our ability to open to the general public.

“We’ve already made a great start by demolishing the old structure and are very much looking forward to our launch event later this year.”

Preserving Heritage and Promoting Sustainability

Founded to support the mill’s original founder, the association became a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in 2022. With nearly 100 members, it focuses on preserving and restoring sawmill engines and machinery, maintaining surrounding downs land, and engaging young people in woodland creation and environmental stewardship.

The Penwith Community Area Partnership played a key role in allocating funds to local projects.

Cllr Luke Rogers, who represents St Ives East, Carbis Bay and Lelant, said: “This funding marks a significant step forward in the association’s mission to foster community development, sustainability, and heritage preservation in Nance.

“We are delighted to support their work.”