Alford Windmill: 262–54 vote backs town council takeover
The future ownership of Alford Windmill has moved a step closer to being decided after residents overwhelmingly backed a transfer of control in a parish poll.
Voters in Alford were asked whether Alford Town Council should take ownership of the landmark five-sail windmill, amid ongoing discussions about the future of several historic mills currently owned by Lincolnshire County Council.
The poll, held at the Alford Corn Exchange, resulted in a clear majority in favour of the proposal. A total of 262 residents voted “yes”, compared to 54 who voted “no”.
The result reflects strong local support for bringing the historic site under town council ownership, as campaigners continue to stress the importance of preserving Lincolnshire’s milling heritage.
Lincolnshire County Council currently owns four windmills across the county:
Alford Windmill
Ellis Mill
Dobson's Mill
Heckington Windmill
Heritage groups say these structures are key symbols of the county’s rural identity and play an important role in attracting visitors.
Among them is Dobson's Mill, a five-storey tower mill built around 1813 by Alford millwright Sam Oxley. It is a rare five-sailed windmill and one of the only “left-handed” mills in Lincolnshire, meaning its sails rotate clockwise when viewed from the front.
The mill was operated by the Dobson family until 1964 and was the last windmill in the county to cease working by wind power. It suffered significant damage during Storm Ciara in February 2020, when its 16-tonne cap and sails were destroyed. Restoration work remains ongoing, with hopes the sails will eventually be reinstated.
Speaking previously, Rob Gibson said the authority had been reviewing options for the windmills it owns.
He said: “The council owns four windmills – each one is in a different condition with different management arrangements.
“We are looking at what the options are for each of these sites.
“We’ve been pleased to have been in talks with interested groups to give the mills a sustainable future.
“When this work is completed, a windmill strategy will be proposed for further engagement. We will then be in a position to take decisions on how we progress.”
However, Malcolm Ringsell, of Dobson's Mill, has urged caution when it comes to potential changes in ownership.
He said: “We have consistently adopted the stance of ‘mend the mill then we can discuss the future’.”