Khaki factory and WW1 crane on list of 10 most at-risk buildings

Hammerhead crane, Cowes, requires urgent attention (Alamy)

A textile mill that developed khaki dye for the uniforms of British troops fighting the Boer War is among the 10 most endangered Victorian and Edwardian buildings, according to an annual “at risk” study.

Tonedale Mill in Somerset has been named alongside sites including an industrial crane used in the production of warships, and public baths in Salford, as the most “at risk” by the Victorian Society.

In a report published today, the charitable organisation said Victorian buildings were “more valued today than half a century ago” but more needed to be done to look after them.

All the sites in the report – Top Ten Most Endangered Buildings in England and Wales 2014 – were all nominated by the public.

Tonedale Mill was built in the early 19th century for Fox Brothers. Parts of the site have been saved, with the help of backing from Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meadon, but “Unfortunately, a large section remains in a near derelict state,” the society said. A proposed housing plan fell through during the recession.

Chris Costelloe, director of the Victorian Society, said: “There are many problem buildings out there and we want everyone to take part in repairing them or they’ll be gone.” Others to make the list include the Coal Exchange in Cardiff, and Abney Park Cemetery Chapel in London.

The Victorian Society director said the list was “eclectic this year” adding that the Greengate Baths in Salford were most at risk.

Endangered buildings: 10 to preserve

1. Hammerhead crane, Cowes, (1912)
2. Greengate Baths, Salford (1855)
3. Former Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, Hartlepool (1871-73)
4. Coal Exchange, Cardiff (1883)
5. All Souls Church, Hastings (1890)
6. Tonedale Mill, Wellington, Somerset (c1800)
7. Abney Park Cemetry Chapel, London (1840)
8. Navigation Colliery, Crumlin, Wales (1907-11)
9. Trentham Hall, near Stoke-on-Trent (1840)
10. Crimean War Monument, Sheffield (1858)