Cash boost for Cromford Mills

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Heritage organisation The Arkwright Society, which owns and manages Cromford Mills, has received a six-figure government cash boost.

The £717,400 grant from the Culture Recovery Fund will cover essential running costs and staff salaries over winter and into next year when the society marks the 250th Anniversary of Sir Richard Arkwright coming to Cromford and building the world’s first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill.

Other projects included in the grant are the purchase of materials to ensure the safety of the site and the delivery of new winter events, in line with government guidance.

With Covid-19 measures in place, Cromford Mills has reopened its gates to visitors seven days a week. The free entry site offers audio and guided tours, cafes, walks, a new sculpture trail and a selection of independent shops.

Simon Wallwork, chief executive of The Arkwright Society, said: “The Culture Recovery Fund support is a real lifeline for the Arkwright Society, enabling it to continue its vital work at Cromford Mills, supporting the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage site.

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“Without this vital funding support, we would not be able to mark the upcoming key milestones in 2021; 250 years since Sir Richard Arkwright established his first factory in Cromford, 50 years since the Arkwright Society was formed and 20 years since the Derwent Valley Mills were inscribed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

“We can now look forward to celebrating these significant events with staff, members, volunteers and the wider public, to make 2021 a really positive year.”