DHV Architects are working with the National Trust at the Grade II* Dunster Watermill in Somerset to provide a new external walkway over the leat and to undertake some internal and external alterations to the upper ‘Bin’ Floor.

The Bin Floor is currently closed to visitors but is an important part of this working watermill. It is used to store the grain in individual bin sections before it is fed down the hoppers to the mill stones on the floor below. The floor was closed to visitors in 2017 due to safety concerns.

A new external walkway is proposed above the leat which will provide a new circular route for visitors, improve access to the Bin Floor and allow visitors to see how the water wheels are powered by water. The walkway will also provide an alternative route, which will allow staff to carry bags of grain to the upper floor.

Planning and Listed Building Consent was approved in May 2023 and work is due to start later in the year.