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Article printed in the Driffield Times 27/01/2006
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Sugar Mills public debate

THE people of Driffield are to be given a chance to have their say on the future of the town's historic Sugar Mills during a public meeting to be held next month.

The event has been organised by Driffield Town Council, whose members hope that one of the town's most significant buildings can be both preserved and enhanced.

The Sugar Mills, which form an integral part of the Riverhead skyline, have fallen into disrepair in recent years and are now boarded up, derelict and dangerous.

Late last year the town council resolved to look at the buildings and see if they could spur the community into action.

The Sugar Mill, on Anderson Street, has a long history and a special place in the hearts of many Driffield people, both those who used to work there but also those who appreciate its architectural beauty and historical significance to the local heritage.

Town council clerk, Clair Binnington, is regularly visited in her office by concerned local residents who wish to see the building renovated.

Residents will be told in the town council newsletter: "There are however, many examples throughout the country of local communities coming together to save buildings of great architectural and historical interest and placing them firmly back into the everyday lives of residents.

"The potential at the Sugar Mill is we believe enormous. "Its location, at the head of the canal, which is ever closer to becoming fully navigable, presents great opportunities for promoting our heritage, community facilities, conference and hospitality facilities and a partnership with private enterprise for apartments and office accommodation could all be possible here."

The public meeting will be held on Thursday March 2 in the Meeting Room, Community Centre, Mill Street. Everyone is welcome.

27 January 2006