Thursday 11 June, 2009

The historic iron entrance gates at Chilworth Gunpowder Mills are now restored thanks to a Guildford Borough Council conservation project.

Consultant Andrew Norris worked with officers and local company Burrows Lea Forge to conserve and repair the impressive gates at the entrance to the scheduled ancient monument in Blacksmith Lane.

Cllr Jen Powell, Lead Councillor for People and Partnership, says: "This work is part of our on-going commitment to protecting and maintaining this important site. We work closely with the Chilworth Gunpowder Mills Group, St Martha's parish council, English Heritage and other partners to help look after both the archaeology and wildlife habitat."

Chilworth Gunpowder Mills was established in 1626 by the East India Company and rapidly expanded in the late 1800s. Guildford Borough Council owns the central section of the site, which closed in 1920 after a decline in demand for explosives at the end of the first world war.

The site is an area of archaeological interest and is popular with walkers in the area. The Mills will feature in our Heritage Open Days programme in September.

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