The project aims to restore both the fabric of the windmill and the internal milling machinery and build an education and training centre with a workshop and education space. Development funding of £128,900 has also been awarded to help the council progress their plans to apply for a full grant of just under £1.4million at a later date.

Set within its original landscape, Upminster Windmill is the only smock windmill in Outer London to retain most of its original machinery and is a regional and national treasure. It was built in 1803 and its restoration will enable the existing volunteers to support new volunteers to access a range of learning and participation opportunities and a variety of resources.

The programme of restoration includes the investigation of the archaeological remains of former buildings and interpretation boards erected to tell the story of the mill and its place in the social history of the area. A wealth of historic material about the mill, including information about its owners, photographs, tools and personal artefacts will be made available to the public for the first time.

Councillor Andrew Curtin, Cabinet Member for Culture, Towns & Communities said: "Upminster Windmill is a very attractive building and adds much to the character and environment of Upminster. It is also an excellent way of learning about the social and economic history of Upminster and the whole of Havering, where windmills played an important part in life in the past. I am looking forward to seeing the results of this first round of funding from Heritage Lottery Fund."

The London Borough of Havering have been working closely with the Upminster Windmill Preservation Trust to develop the project. Dennis Coombs, Chair of the Trust, said: "Upminster Windmill is an important local landmark and we are very grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund for this first round development funding. This is a fantastic reward for the many years of hard work by our team of volunteers who have kept the mill open to the public and we look forward to working with the council to develop the full plans."

Sue Bowers, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund London, said: "We're extremely pleased to give initial support to the project, which aims to bring to life the rich historical significance of Upminster Windmill for the benefit of the local community and visitors alike. We shall watch the developing plans with interest."

Further information

For images and interviews, please contact Katie Watkinson, External Relations Officer, London Borough of Havering on 01708 432 011, email: Katie.watkinson@havering.gov.uk.