Hawton Gypsum works, Notts, April 2015

A nice little mini-explore just on the outskirts of Newark. This run-down Gypsum Grinding Mill is the last remaining remnant of the former Hawton Gypsum works. Built in the late 19th century, the works were established when the nearby Beacon Hill Quarry opened in 1881. It was linked to the quarry and to a wharf on the River Trent by a tramway. The grinding mill was an important part of the gypsum plaster manufacturing process. Although now in very poor condition, it is a rare survivor, primarily due to its Grade II Listed Building status, granted largely on the basis of the completeness of the machinery. The site was in use until 1993. After closure arson and metal theft have all but obliterated the interesting equipment leaving an empty shell. The mill itself is a two storey linear building with semi-circular arched openings, built in red brick with blue and buff brick decorative elements. Most of the former corrugated sheet roof covering has now gone.

Here's the pictures.

A metalled road leads up to the now-isolated factory:

img8584 by HughieDW, on Flickr

Which stands rather forlorn:

img8585 by HughieDW, on Flickr

In its time it was quite stylish for a mill:

img8599 by HughieDW, on Flickr

…but now just a hollow shell is left:

img8598 by HughieDW, on Flickr

Some of the decorative features remain like these blue and buff brick window arches:

img8602 by HughieDW, on Flickr

..and a rusting floodlight:

img8588 by HughieDW, on Flickr

Internally it's slim pickings:

img8593 by HughieDW, on Flickr

…having been ravaged by metal thieves and arsonists:

img8590 by HughieDW, on Flickr

The roof is now gone, bar a few burnt joists:

img8589 by HughieDW, on Flickr

…and the bits of metal the thieves couldn't get to:

img8604 by HughieDW, on Flickr

That said, some of the 8 sets of grinding stones, originally arranged in pairs and encased in timber drums, still remain:

img8591 by HughieDW, on Flickr

img8592 by HughieDW, on Flickr

img8594 by HughieDW, on Flickr

Thanks for looking!

It's a shame its got in that condition. Love the brickwork detailing over the windows!
Great report, thanks for sharing

UrbanX said:

It's a shame its got in that condition. Love the brickwork detailing over the windows!
Great report, thanks for sharing

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Cheers UrbanX! Much appreciated...

Shame must have been a imposing building in its day, but you got some great shots.

Firebugs and metal thieves, I detest them, lovely pics and report, I enjoyed it, Thanks

Nice report and pictures, might have to visit there if I find time.

Wernok said:

Nice report and pictures, might have to visit there if I find time.

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Cheers mate. Better get a look before it falls down!