Historic 1800s Highland mill to get new lease of life

The Herald Scotland

3 days ago

It was built to support new industrial approaches to agriculture in the early 1800s before being given to the community and used as a gathering space after World War II and then eventually lying derelict for more than 40 years.
The funding boost means Balmacara Community Trust has now secured more than £1 million for the project.
The Old Mill Hall sits at the centre of Balmacara Square and is the only unrestored building in the historic setting.
The mill was built in the early 1800s (Image: Handout)
The condition of the building detracts from a picturesque area but it being renovated will allow another part of Highland history to be recognised.
Caroline Clark, The National Lottery Heritage Fund Director for Scotland said; 'Balmacara Old Mill Hall has stood witness to changing ways of life over two centuries. Throughout most of that time it was a hub of community activity, first through industry then from 1946 as a shared gathering space.
'Sadly, mounting repairs forced its closure in the 1980s and we are delighted that thanks to National Lottery players we can support this project led by local people to restore the Old Mill Hall and see it back at the heart of life in their community.'
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Mike Shucksmith Chair of Balmacara Community Trust said; 'We are delighted to secure The National Lottery Heritage Fund's support for the restoration. We are grateful to National Lottery players who made it possible and to all of our funders who have helped us reach this stage in the project and who continue to support us.'
The Old Mill Hall was initially gifted to the community in 1946 by Lady Hamilton and forms part of Bamacara Square, an early example of the Model Farms that were developed throughout the Victorian Era.
It started life as a watermill and features of that will be reflected in the restoration.
Work has already been carried out to retain features and has already uncovered other lost features, including a wheel pit and mill lade, the internal fly wheel pit which was hidden beneath a raised ground and evidence of the original façade.