Gateway Go Ahead

28 September 2010

The Arkwright Society is celebrating a £2million grant award for the development of a World Heritage Site Gateway facility and a Creative Cluster for businesses in the largest building at Cromford Mill, known as Building 17.
A significant increase in visitors is expected for the new Gateway facility, which will include an interactive model of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. Visitors will be able to gain information on the key locations in the valley including historical background, what to see and do and how to get there. Plans also include an AV theatre with films about the Derwent Valley and how to make the most of its attractions.
An extensive activity programme will run alongside the Gateway and include year round events involving talks, tours, drama and musical productions, concerts, re-enactments and activities for the whole family. The project will also run new education programmes for schools and colleges as well as extensive new training and volunteering opportunities for the local community.
The Creative Cluster on the upper floors of Building 17 will provide managed state-of-the-art workspace for up to 70 new businesses, helping to create new jobs and boost the local economy.
Sarah McLeod, Chief Executive of the Arkwright Society said:
"I am absolutely delighted that at last the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site will have a Gateway facility, providing the public with information they need to really explore and learn about why this unique valley is so important in world history. The new managed workspace units will also give a huge boost to the economic health of this rural area. I cannot thank the project team enough for the hard work they have done in such a difficult economic climate. Obtaining endorsement for our plans from the Heritage Lottery Fund is a fantastic achievement and a real boost for the work now ahead of us to bring this project about."
Cllr Andrew Lewer, Chairman of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site Partnership and Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said:
"The Derwent Valley Mills have an inspiring story of innovation and pioneering endeavour to tell the world. The Gateway facility will be a major step forward in presenting that story, and helping people understand where to go and what to see when they visit. The new workspaces will also play a welcome role in strengthening the county's economy.”
The Building 17 project requires a total funding package of approximately £4million and further funding bids are currently being submitted. It is hoped that work on the site will commence in Spring 2011 with the Gateway opening in 2012.