SOMERSET West and Taunton Council has held a planning committee meeting to discuss the disused Tonedale Mills – but the outcome remains ‘confidential,’ writes Barry Knott.

One of those attending the meeting at Williton last Thursday was Mayor of Wellington Janet Lloyd, who is not on the committee but attended as a ‘sub.’

The agenda item, titled ‘Tonedale Mill S215 notice’ was listed for discussion by the committee. Before the matter was discussed, councillors decided to exclude the press and public.

“There was an outcome but I cannot say what this was,” said the Mayor. “Tonedale Mill is on my patch and I want it to be preserved. It is our heritage. It is just like everyone downed tools and walked out. It is just disintegrating.

“The police are also being regularly called to the mill because youngsters are breaking in. It is a dangerous place and the officers don’t want to go in.”

In early June the council asked the current owners of the buildings to carry out works on the site, including clearing the open spaces, removing fallen timber fences and ensuring all windows and openings in the building were fully boarded and secured. This had to be done within eight weeks.