Tone Mills is a very large and sensitive project which is going to be paid for with small change. Or is that not the case? A million or so is peanuts with such a task. What do we know about the unique architectural glories of the site? Are they to be restored even if that does mean some compromise in the rebuilding mix? We haven’t a clue. Is it to be torn down, flattened for commonplace housing? Ditto.

Almost everyone caught up in this saga deserves to be ashamed. One ‘town council’ after another chewed the cud having none of the skills in finance and construction, still less imagination, demanded by such a large project, so they just froze in the headlights of an oncoming juggernaut.

The non-performance of the Soviet Republic of Somerset and its North Korean dependency, the ‘Taunton and Somerset West’ boondoggle, should all be collectively ashamed of the tragedy/fiasco in Tonedale.

And where may we ask was the town’s MP when she was needed? Waiting for a train to catch at her yet phantom Wellington station?

Tone is a gem, yet practically all the precious interiors and gear have been destroyed by neglect, indolence and political indifference. It is a shocking testament of muddle, stupidity, confusion, dawdling and neglect.

The Mills were the beating heart of Wellington, bequeathed by a long lost generation who built for excellence and long-lasting beauty. Yes, a monument, just like the other one.

RICHARD COTTRELL

via email