Bursledon Windmill: Appeal launched to save historic Hampshire site
An appeal has been launched to save an historic site in Hampshire
Volunteers at Bursledon Windmill have launched a fundraising appeal to help maintain the historic site, warning that ongoing financial pressure is making basic upkeep increasingly difficult.
The appeal supports work at the Grade II* listed landmark, where volunteers carry out essential day-to-day maintenance to preserve the building and surrounding grounds.
The GoFundMe campaign, set up by volunteer Bex Longhurst, highlights a shortage of basic equipment on site, with volunteers reportedly using personal tools to complete routine tasks including grounds maintenance and minor repairs.
Items urgently needed include practical maintenance equipment, with volunteers saying existing tools are worn out or no longer functional, making day-to-day work increasingly challenging.
Despite a modest initial target of £500, the campaign has already raised almost £2,000 within four days of launching. The funds will be used to purchase essential equipment, including a new wheelbarrow to support ongoing maintenance work.
Although the target has been reached, organisers say donations are still welcome to help improve facilities and support further conservation work at the site.
Bex said: “We kept our original goal modest, but the level of support we’ve seen in such a short time has opened up even more possibilities for the mill. With the funds raised so far, we’re already able to make more meaningful progress.
“That said, as with any historic site, some work requires professional expertise, such as removing pigeons and cleaning inside the mill. These additional funds will help us move towards those larger, more impactful goals.”
Organisers say continued public support will be vital in preserving the landmark as both a heritage asset and community space for future generations.
The windmill is now managed by the Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust after Hampshire County Council ended its lease.
It has previously been reported that the trust filed a dilapidation claim against the council, alleging failure to meet repair obligations.
The claim is understood to relate to the cost of restoring the site to a good condition, including reinstating the sails and replacing a boundary fence that was damaged by a delivery vehicle and has not yet been replaced.
Built in 1814 and restored in the late 20th century, Bursledon Windmill remains Hampshire’s only surviving working windmill and has long relied on volunteer support alongside formal management to remain operational.