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Restormel: THE FUTURE OF PONTS MILL TURBINE IS SECURED

Cornwall Council and Restormel Borough Council have secured ownership of the Hydro-electric Turbine at Ponts Mill and the former Ponts Mill China Stone Works from the China Clay Company, Imerys, following lengthy negotiations. As part of the deal, adjoining buildings and land have also been taken over.


Part of Luxulyan Valley, the turbines have been acquired to safeguard the leat system which runs through the valley and to generate renewable electricity which will be directed to the national grid.

The intention is for the turbine to be operated by a third party and to generate green electricity to help financially support the recently formed Luxulyan Valley Partnership in managing of the valley.

Initial work has included carrying out safety improvements to the China Stone Works and to identify a suitable contractor to run the facility on the Luxulyan Valley Partnership’s behalf. Further work will be done to explore options for obtaining additional finance to update the system.

The turbine is seen as one of the most important examples 19th century industrialisation in Cornwall. The creation of Joseph Treffry, the original use of the site focused on the leats – to provide power to water wheels in and around the Valley, including the popular Carmears wheel.

Imerys donated Luxulyan Valley to the two Councils in 1992, including ownership of the leats. The Valley is particularly valuable and well-known for biodiversity, spectacular landscape, industrial heritage and recreation.

Mike Hawkey, Head of Environment & Heritage for the County Council said, ‘It was important for us to safeguard the turbine, as the Valley is dependent on the existing leat system to supply water that maintains its current character, biodiversity and historical integrity.