Updates and news from the Project
Tree work is taking place around Bradwell Windmill and the railway walk this week.
We’re removing and replacing some trees close to Bradwell Windmill that have been affected by ash dieback and other issues. Our aim is for healthy trees to grow in the area for many years to come.
A small (1 minute) detour will be in place while the work is happening.
Once this work is finished, and the mill restored, it will be possible to turn the cap again so its sails can face the wind.
Site notice from Milton Keynes City Council for the works below:
Significant tree management works scheduled to take place in this area. These works are necessary to address the widespread impact of ash dieback disease and the deterioration of lapsed coppice woodland.
Ash dieback, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, has severely affected many ash trees, compromising their structural integrity and posing a risk to public safety. In addition, areas of lapsed coppice—where previously managed woodland has become overgrown and unstable—require intervention to restore ecological health and biodiversity.
As part of this programme, major tree removals and clear felling will be undertaken in affected zones. This includes the removal of large groups of diseased or structurally unsound trees. However, trees that remain in good condition and contribute positively to the landscape will be retained wherever possible.
We understand the importance of trees to our communities—not only for their beauty and biodiversity, but also for their cultural and emotional value. These decisions are made following thorough assessments by qualified arboricultural professionals, with public safety and long-term sustainability as our top priorities.
Looking Ahead: Replanting and Redesign for Future Generations
This is not just a removal project—it is a renewal. We are committed to:
Works will begin on 17th November 2025 and are expected to continue through 28th November 2025. During this time, access to certain areas may be restricted for safety reasons.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation.
Bradwell Windmill, one of the few surviving windmills in Buckinghamshire, is set to undergo vital works to restore its historic fabric and infrastructure with the support of heritage specialists, Pick Everard.
Appointed by Milton Keynes City Council, Pick Everard’s heritage surveying team will carry out detailed condition surveys and oversee the essential repairs required on the Grade II listed building.
Supported by a £250,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery Players, the project will include key conservation works such as stone repairs, maintenance to the machinery, repainting of the cap, and repairs of the sails, with the ultimate goal of returning the windmill to full working order.
The wider initiative of the project will also extend to the nearby ‘Railway Walk’, better connecting the Windmill to the local area to make it easier to explore its rich industrial and natural history.
Nicola Storey, heritage building surveyor at Pick Everard, added: “The windmill was built around 1805, and has had various maintenance repairs over the years to its building fabric, windows and sails. To ensure the windmill is fully restored and can once again grind flour, the restoration requires a specialist team who can truly understand the character and condition of the structure to carry out the vital works it needs. During our condition survey, we will assess every element, from the stone masonry to the timber sails, ensuring that the mill’s story and craftsmanship continue to be appreciated long into the future.”
Matthew Appleton, strategic account director for heritage building surveying at Pick Everard, said: “We’ve undertaken hundreds of culture and heritage projects across the UK, but the Bradwell windmill is particularly special due to its community benefit and social value it looks to achieve. Our team look forward to work commencing to restore the windmill and once complete, seeing residents build a deeper connection with their local heritage.”
Milton Keynes City Council will be working alongside residents to develop heritage, learning, training and volunteering activities at the Windmill that will involve expert partners, including Milton Keynes Museum, the Living Archive MK and Milton Keynes Arts Centre.
Cllr Shanika Mahendran, Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking with Portfolio for heritage enthused: "Bradwell Windmill is a treasured part of our city’s heritage, and this restoration will ensure it can be enjoyed for generations to come. Thanks to the support of our partners, we’re not only preserving an iconic landmark, but we’re also creating opportunities for local people to connect with our history through learning and volunteering."
The works are due to be completed by late 2026 in time for Milton Keynes’ 60th birthday year in 2027.
As part of the Bradwell Windmill Project, Living Archive are inviting people who have a connection to the windmill to come along and take part in a filmed oral history interview.
Have you worked at the windmill? Are you a volunteer? Do you live near the windmill? What do you think about the restoration project?
Get in touch by contacting Living Archive, call 01908 322568 or email admin@livingarchive.or.uk
