Lincolnshire County Council pledges support for Alford Windmill restoration

Lincolnshire County Council has pledged support for the restoration of Alford Windmill, but an amount has yet to be determined.

The plans to bring the 19th Century five-sailed windmill back into use include a new visitor centre featuring a café and shop, along with the conversion of the adjoining Miller’s Cottage into holiday accommodation and office space. These plans were recently approved by East Lindsey District Council's planning committee.

This project is one of three receiving £8 million in government funding and is expected to open in 2026.

The Grade I listed building currently remains in the ownership of Lincolnshire County Council, although some hope it could be transferred to the Alford Windmill Trust once restoration works are completed.

Lincolnshire County Council leader Martin Hill (Con) said the council is working hard to help secure the windmill's future.

“The council is committed to the repair and restoration of Alford Mill and we are undertaking an exercise to understand the works and associated costs required. We are also working with local stakeholders to secure the windmill’s future," said the representative for Folkingham Rural division.

During the same meeting, East Lindsey District Council's planning committee also approved proposed improvements to the 16th Century Alford Manor House, costing more than £2 million.

These include demolishing the existing cart shed next to the coach house and replacing it with a large new-build function room, allowing for the removal of the temporary marquee that has been in place since 2006.

Coun Graham Marsh (Con), portfolio holder for leisure and culture, described the two projects as a "big win win for the town".

“They are two really superb assets that the town has, but like all old assets, they take a lot of money and care to maintain,” added Coun Marsh. “It’s very much appreciated that they have been deemed worthy of saving and improving."