Heritage Enterprise
Hilden Primary School in Lisburn dates back to 1912 and was built by the Barbour family to educate the children of employees at their nearby linen mill.
The school, which had been lying empty since closing in 2008, has been brought back into use as a space for children to learn and play.
Working in partnership with The Resurgam Trust, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has transformed the Grade B1 listed building into a childcare facility for families in the local area.
The building’s new Hilden Mill Tea Room is now a gathering place for the local community and users of the Lagan Tow Path, a nearby, popular walking and cycling route.
The area’s social and industrial heritage is highlighted through interpretation boards in the café which share the story of the Barbour thread mill.
An authentic kitchen garden will be developed in the grounds to provide produce for the tea room and feature bee-friendly planting, bird boxes and insect holes.
Together, the Hilden Mill Tea Room and Little Weavers Daycare which are being run by The Resurgam Trust will employ 20 staff.
Adrian Bird, Director of The Resurgam Trust, said that now the refurbishment is complete, “this listed building with its rich history will again become the focal point for community-based activities. It demonstrates what can be achieved when like-minded and determined people come together with a common cause.”
