Site Event/Activity record ECH6515 - Trafford Mill, Mickle Trafford, Chester: Structural Condition Report

Survey (visual inspection only) undertaken for the Trafford Mill Board, in 2013, of Trafford Mill with the purpose of identifying elements/areas in need of repair or requiring further investigation. It follows on from other reports prepared for the Board including a report and schedule of repairs produced by millwright Martin Watts (April 2008), also an assessment of condition produced by Jenny Wetton (July 2011). There is a proposal to construct a fish diversion through the mill site. This report provides recommendations for urgent structural works and targeted ground investigation of suspect areas and those concealed by vegetation or water. The electrical and plumbing systems were not inspected, nor were the water wheel mechanisms and associated framework. The outer shell and internal frame of the mill were found to be in a moderate to fair structural condition with no significant differential movement or foundation weakness. However, the external brickwork is showing signs of wear due to weathering and accordingly requires some repair. The roof has spread slightly due to inadequate triangulation of loads. The lateral movement has compromised the weathertightness of valley gutters and seals around many of the roof light openings, allowing ingress of rain and onset of some rot. The report presents a schedule of required repairs. (1)