Chase
Mill
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Historic Chase Mill, which is
recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 is currently
the headquarters of Subacoustech Ltd.. The mill
building, although derelict at the time of purchase
in 1996, had been preserved in a unique and
untouched state largely as a result of it having a
constant flow of water from the Sandboil springs.
The mill had consequently never been "improved" by
conversion to oil or gas engines, and hence it is
probably one of the best preserved Victorian mills
in Southern England. |
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The
millpond and its surroundings are a calcareous fen,
and are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI),
with a glorious mix of rare acid and alkali loving
plants. In the summer the grassy slopes are awash
with butterflies, insects and flowers. The millpond
is a stronghold for many rare species, including the
Moulin snail.
Over the last few years a vast effort (partly
funded by Subacoustech) has been expended on
restoring the mill and its environment and opening
it to the public, in collaboration with Hampshire
County Council's Countryside Service. Chase Mill is
once again milling flour from local grain. The mill
has been designated a building of "unique industrial
archaeological significance" by the European
Commission, along with three further mills in
Europe.
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