Hydro power returns to world heritage site

The new water wheel has a diameter of 5m (16ft)

Hydroelectric power has returned to a Derbyshire textile mill that helped to spark the industrial revolution.

Cromford Mills in Derbyshire - built in 1771 by Sir Richard Arkwright - was the world's first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill and has now been upgraded with 21st Century technology.

A new water wheel has been installed at the Unesco world heritage site alongside a 17kWh hydro turbine and water source heating system to power the site.

The Arkwright Society said the project cost a total of £457,000, paid for by Severn Trent Water, Derbyshire County Council and a crowdfunding appeal.

Eilis Scott said the project "serves as a catalyst" for further renewable energy projects at the site

The new water wheel has been installed inside the original wheel pit from the 18th Century and is powered by the same water source used back in 1771.

Eilis Scott, chief executive of the Arkwright Society said the new tech would generate approximately 20% of the site’s electricity.

"This is a pivotal moment for the Arkwright Society", said Ms Scott.

"Restoring waterpower to Cromford Mills helps preserve the heritage that helped shape our nation’s history.

"Our vision is to continue the regeneration of the site, keeping it accessible and inclusive to all our visitors, by creating a sustainable and vibrant place that blends heritage with innovation."

The Arkwright Society said any unused energy gets "spilled over" into local networks

James Boon, Director of James Boon Architects said working on a historic landmark that forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site was not an easy task.

"We do a lot of work with historic buildings so we are used to challenges", said Mr Boon.

"The design is very typical of what would have been here historically so it feels appropriate. I'm very glad we helped to integrate the hydropower into the historic fabric of the site.

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