Historic factory could become community space

A historical cloth dyeing factory could be turned into a community space, a councillor has said.

Tone Works in Wellington, Somerset, was a wool and textile dyeing factory, in use from at least the 1750s up until its closure in 2000.

Now, people in the area are being asked to share their views on the future of the former factory.

Councillor Mike Rigby, Liberal Democrat lead member for economic development planning and assets at Somerset Council, said: "We've got some ideas, some of that is community uses, which is what we want to hear about from people."

"We have all sorts of heritage requirements, things we have to do to respect the original form and architecture of the building," Rigby added.

"The largest part of the building is currently under repair. We're trying to put the buildings back together in a way that respects the history."

Somerset Council and Wellington-based conservation architects Thread are inviting local people to share their views on the future of the Tone Works site in the town.

During a series of drop-ins this month, people will have the chance to meet the team behind the project and talk about its future and what they would like to see happen.

The Tone Works factory formed a pivotal part of Wellington's cloth industry, housing the Fox Brothers' wool and textile dyeing and "wet finishing" – washing and drying – processes. The wool and cloth was produced at the nearby Tonedale Mill.

Evidence of the evolution of water, steam and electric power generation remains, along with a unique collection of dyeing and finishing machinery which contributes to the site's special significance.

The former Somerset West and Taunton Council took on the Tone Works premises in 2020 and undertook a phased programme of works to start bringing the derelict site into better condition after netting Levelling Up and Historic England funding.

The drop-ins will take place at Eliza Hous in Wellington on Monday and Tuesday from noon until 19:30 BST.

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