The historic ToneWorks site in Wellington has received a £20 million boost to aid with restoration efforts.

It comes after a bid by the council the government's 'levelling up fund' - which invests in infrastructure aimed at regenerating towns across the country.

The council has previously been awarded funds from both the government and Historic England and others, since the local authority acquired the site in 2020.

These funds paid for some structural repairs and other works to take place, enabling a number of public and private tours of the site to go ahead.

Councillor Ros Wyke, Somerset Council Lead Member for Economy, Planning and Assets welcomed the boost. He said: “We are extremely pleased that the importance of heritage of Wellington has been recognised, after the disappointment of Rounds 1 and 2.” 

Rebecca Pow, Member of Parliament for Taunton Deane said: “I am absolutely thrilled that the Government have just announced that nearly £20 million has been provisionally awarded for our application to the Levelling up Fund “Vision for Tonedale, this ambitious plan will restore and save nationally important heritage sites; also much-loved historic landmarks.

"I was disappointed at the beginning of this year that the application was unsuccessful in a previous funding round and I have been engaging with Ministers since then, making the case for this much needed investment.

"I am so pleased that this has been addressed today with this announcement, bringing with it a range of economic opportunities. This is a perfect demonstration that the Government is fully committed to levelling up all parts of the country, including the South-West.

"Coming hot on the heels of the Wellington Rail station announcement; and my local campaign to complete the restoration of the Wellington Monument, this will be another huge boost to the town.”