Time running out to support waterpower project

Time is running out to support a crowdfunding campaign to raise cash to bring waterpower back to Cromford Mills.

The historic site, which played a pivotal role in shaping the Industrial Revolution as the first successful water powered cotton spinning mill in the world, has embarked on a project to install a new water wheel, hydro turbine and water source heating system.

By utilising the original water course, this system is expected to generate approximately 20 to 25% of on-site electricity.

The project has been made possible, thanks to the Green Entrepreneur Fund, Severn Trent Community Fund and local businesses, including Vaillant.

However, due to rising costs, a funding gap was identified – and Cromford Mills needs to raise £30,000 to complete the installation this month.

With just days to go, the crowdfunder is a few thousand pounds shy of its target – and Cromford Mills is appealing to the Bondholder community to help it get over the line.

Simon Gill, operations director at Cromford Mills, said: “I have been reaching out to local Derbyshire businesses, seeking any support towards the project, and to be part of a fantastic sustainable community project that we can all support and be proud of.

“We are going to have a sponsor’s board on site for all the main sponsors and there is a lot of social media around this.

“We will be having a grand VIP opening/launch in the spring, which major sponsors will be invited to.

“We appreciate these are difficult economic times for all businesses, so any donation would be appreciated.”

To support the project visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cromford-water-power-project/backers#start.

To find out more about the project visit https://www.cromfordmills.org.uk/hydro-power-project/ .