There are always a number of major projects which need to be completed. The timing depends upon a number of things - if it is outdoors then  weather is a major factor apart from the cost of completing the work.

              

                                                        

                          

 

 

 

                                                          

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                               

  

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

                                                                                                                          

 

 

 

        

                                                                                                                                                                                                

    

    

             

                      

                                                                                        

                                                                                                                          

              

            

                   

 

      

 

               

                                                                              

          

                                                                                      

                              

                

                                                                               

                                                                                  

                                                                                      

On 10th and 11th January 2011 the two remaining Sweeps (sails) were removed together with  the Stocks and Wedges.  It was essential that these should be examined and repaired as necessary. The two outer Sweeps have already been repaired but cannot  be replaced until work on the inner ones has been completed.

 

 

The cap was lifted off the tower and gently placed on to the prepared barrels in the grounds of the Mill.  It has been found that more extensive work is necessary on the fanstage and possibly also the cap in order to bring both back into good repair.  The maintenance team are undertaking as much of this work as is possible although some expert help may be required.

Removing the Cap

 

Current Projects

Stone Cross Windmill

  Registered Charity No. 1052827

 

See pictures

Every project needs money before it can be undertaken and Grants for maintenance and improvements to the Mill are very hard to find.  We therefore rely on the assistance of the "Friends of the Mill" and our visitors to whom we are extremely grateful.  If you would like to  help in some small way please contact the Secretary.

Painting the Tower

This is another massive undertaking.  Since restoration, the Mill has been painted three times and each time although it has looked wonderful for a little while, it has deteriorated very quickly.   Professional advice has been sought and it would appear that the original preparation was not done properly.  Because of this, the original coating of lime wash was never removed completely and is now reacting with the paint.  Sussex Blast Company have offered to sandblast the Mill free of Charge,  although we had to find  money for scaffolding which is still expensive.  

 

Updating the Mill Store

The Trust has been awarded a Grant through the Big Lottery Fund to up-date the Mill Store to bring it in line with current Health and Safety Regulations.  New kitchen units have already been installed, non-slip flooring will be laid and heaters fitted. Members of the Maintenance team will insulate the roof and walls during the winter months.  This will ensure that on cold days it is still pleasant to sit having refreshments.

Permanent protection for the Cap

 

Unfortunately, wood however well looked after cannot be preserved indefinitely and to remove the cap for repairs is extremely expensive.   The Trust are looking into any viable options in the hope of obtaining Grants to cover this work and so ensure that the Mill is kept in good condition for future generations.

Now the scaffolding has been erected by Hailsham Scaffolding at a very reasonable price, discounted by them as we are a Charity and within the next few weeks, the tower will be sandblasted and painted.  

The Mill does not stand still and there is always more work to be done.  

Our thanks go to both Companies for their kindness in supporting the Mill.