Derbyshire: Funding boost for Lumsdale water course initiative

The Arkwright Society has received £78,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for the Explore Lumsdale project.

Led by volunteers, the project focuses on providing safe access to the historic water courses in the Lumsdale Valley for educational and community activity.

Julian Burgess, chairman of the Lumsdale Commitee, said: “We are thrilled to have received the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund.

“The Explore Lumsdale Project will enhance our local pride in our industrial heritage and help us to preserve the amazing story of the Lumsdale Valley within the community, both local and beyond.”

The initiative will re–instate the historical middle and lower ponds for the benefit of wildlife and to enable visitors to gain a clearer understanding of the energy sources used to power the mills. It will involve a series of working parties, an opportunity for volunteer training, outreach work within the community and developing educational projects with local schools.

A key part of the project will be to improve access to the site, with better pathways and viewing platforms.