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Saxtead Green Post Mill split in two for urgent structural repairs
Overview
The 18th-century Saxtead Green Post Mill in Suffolk has been cut in half and its upper housing unit removed using a crane to address a serious structural issue with its main oak post. Owner Jonathan Sullivan and caretaker Nathan Sullivan discovered wood fragments indicating potential breakdown due to age, climate, or modern grease. Funded by the English Heritage Trust and approved by the government, the historic lifting operation aims to allow inspections and repairs within a targeted 12-month timeframe.
Key points
- Saxtead Green Post Mill in Suffolk has been cut in half for urgent repairs following the discovery of a serious structural problem.
- The issue involves the mill's main oak post, which risks causing the structure to topple over if left untreated.
- Caretaker Nathan Sullivan discovered wooden fragments during a routine safety check, prompting investigations.
- Potential causes for the post's deterioration include its age, climate changes, or the use of modern lithium grease.
- A crane was used to remove the mill's upper wooden housing unit, marking the first time a post mill has been lifted in this manner.
- The removal was funded by the English Heritage Trust and required approval from the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.