IMAGES TAKEN NEAR TO
Spring Gardens, SHREWSBURY, SY1 2ST

There is always building work going on here.

The Ditherington Flax Mill was built in 1797, and was the first iron-framed building to be built in the world. It was built of iron because of the combustible nature of the flax.

In 1896 the former flax mill was converted for use as a maltings. This listed kiln building was added at that time together with other ornamentation. The complex remained in use as maltings until 1986.

The Grade 1 Listed iron-framed flax mill had engine houses at the north and south ends. In the centre of this view is the north engine house that is the full width of the mill. To its right is the later malt kiln from the site's conversion from flax mill to floor malting. The mill was built in two stages in rapid succession with the south engine being a Boulton and Watt of 1797 and the north engine of 1800 being thought to be by Fenton, Murray & Wood of Leeds and of 40 horsepower. The 1800 engine was replaced in 1820 and the evidence suggests that the engine house was rebuilt as the bricks are smaller and the roof is of a more modern construction. The new engine was of 56 horsepower and again very probably by Murray. In c1874 the beam engines at each end were replaced by 30 horsepower single cylinder Corliss engine by Hick, Hargreaves of Bolton. There were considerable internal changes to the engine house with the insertion of a new floor above the engine.

This picture is dominated by the Grade I Listed flax warehouse of c1810. This is iron-framed of fireproof construction and with cast iron roof trusses.

Funeral directors.

This former malt kiln is Listed Grade II. It dates from the conversion of the former flax mill to a malting in 1896-7. To the left is the Grade I Listed warehouse and to the right is Cross Mill. The Mill complex is undergoing conservation and an exhibition has opened on the ground floor of the main block while space has also been given to offices and a cafe. Several of the buildings have still to be finished.