OWNERS of a historic water mill near Bridgnorth, which was ravaged by horrendous floods two years ago, have been given a boost by an award for its recent restoration work.
The project at Daniels Mill, Knowle Sands, has been recognised with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) West Midlands Geotechnical Award 2010.
“This recognises geotechnical projects for their outstanding achievements and innovation,” said Damian McGettrick, a director of WM Longreach, who with Geotechnics, were responsible for the massive reinstatement of embankments following a significant landslide.
“This major earthworks project was completed in just six months and required the reconstruction of the embankment adjacent to the Severn Valley Railway viaduct.
“The scale of the project included the movement of almost 5,000 tonnes of material and the end result has been recognised by UK geotechnical experts for its innovative solution.
“The mill is sited in a heritage and conservation area and therefore required sensitive restoration works.
“A ‘reinforced earth’ method, which is designed to be sympathetic to the surrounding areas and in keeping with the natural heritage, was noted by the ICE for its successful outcome, on time and to budget, together with the achievement of a high quality installation.
“Work had to be co-ordinated with the mill owners, the George family, and meet strict safety, environmental and quality targets.
“Following the restoration work, the Daniels Mill Trust is nearing completion of a visitors’ centre, incorporating much-improved facilities for visitors by providing a cafe, information boards detailing the history of the site, dedicated historic walks and mill tours beneath the impressive 200ft tall railway viaduct.
“The new facilities will suit the increasing number of visitors both locally and tourists from further afield.”
The mill has been under the ownership of the same family for more than 250 years and has remained largely unaltered since the 18th century.”
Damian, a chartered civil engineer, will become chairman of the ICE West Midlands in October, promoting the importance of resources in the region, including climate change, skills and training and the need to ensure there is continued investment in construction to sustain the future economies of the region.
Pictured: ALAN George (right) of the Daniels Mill Trust and Damian McGettrick of civil engineers WM Longreach with the certificate and trophy which was awarded by ICE president Paul Jowitt at the awards ceremony at the ICC in Birmingham.
