The grant will enable the restoration of the spectacular 19th-century Treffry viaduct, allowing power to be generated through a new hydro-electric turbine.

Luxulyan Valley has industrial history and is part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site. It has a complex system of leats (artificial water channels) which connected central Cornwall’s tin and copper mines with the harbours in Par and Charlestown.

The National Lottery funding will be used to restore the two leat systems within the Valley and also its ‘jewel in the crown’ - the spectacular Treffry Viaduct, built from 1839-1842. At 27 metres high, over 200 metres long, with 10 equal span arches, the Treffry Viaduct is an amazing feat of engineering and the most spectacular surviving monument to the horse drawn tramway era for which the valley is renowned.

[quote=Lieutenant Colonel Philip Hills, Chairman of Cornwall Heritage Trust]"We are delighted that the unique Treffry viaduct will be restored to its former working glory.."[/quote]

Water from the restored leat system will feed a new hydro-electric turbine, to be built separately by Cornwall Council. The electricity generated will be sold to the National Grid, and fund the ongoing conservation of the Valley.

The funding will also help nature conservation. Volunteers will remove invasive plant species, whilst installing bird and bat boxes. Footpaths will also be improved to make the valley more accessible for all visitors. 

Chairman of Cornwall Heritage Trust, Lieutenant Colonel Philip Hills, said: "We are delighted that the unique Treffry viaduct will be restored to its former working glory and saved for future generations, thanks to the opportunity given to us by the Heritage Lottery Fund.”

In total, more than £5m will be invested in the valley providing a boost to the local economy and creating new jobs and learning opportunities. 

Work will begin on the Luxulyan Valley project in January 2018, and continue for three years.