Chesapeake mill, Hampshire sold to become antiques centre

Hampshire County Council who acquired Chesapeake mill in 1998 to protect it from deterioration and inappropriate use, have finally decided to sell it for use as an antiques centre, despite objections from the Chesapeake Action Group (CAG) who fear such use will restrict public access to the historic mill, and had plans to buy the mill to run it as a museum.

The Grade II* listed mill includes reused timbers from the frigate USS Chesapeake, which was captured by the Royal Navy ship HMS Shannon in 1813, and dismantled in 1820 after service in the Royal Navy.

Taylor Haimes Ltd, the new owners, have given assurances that there will be some public access to the building, and aim to establish a museum in part of it. The rest will be used as an antiques shop and restoration centre.