A pair of property investors have acquired Chesterfield’s historic Cannon Mill as part of their drive to regenerate long-neglected buildings across the town.
James Middleton and Tom Marriott, lifelong friends with strong connections to Chesterfield, focus on restoring historic buildings that have fallen into disrepair.
Their latest project is Cannon Mill, an 18th century industrial building on Catherine Street that has stood vacant for almost 70 years. The property, purchased for £130,000, dates back to 1775 and was historically used for boring and casting cannons, cannonballs and other armaments.
The pair plan to transform the site into a hybrid working space, while preserving key heritage features. The development will retain the building’s historic iron waterwheel and will be subject to the necessary heritage and planning approvals.
Banner Jones Solicitors’ Commercial Team supported the buyers throughout the transaction.
Matthew Maiden, commercial property solicitor, said: “We were delighted to advise James and Tom on the acquisition of Cannon Mill. Their commitment to restoring historic buildings and creating high-quality workspace is helping to bring underused properties back into the local economy, and it was a pleasure to support them in completing the transaction.”
Works are expected to take around a year.
Marriott said: “The team at Banner Jones are ace – quick turnaround, great service, right searches – making sure we buy the right properties. They are fundamental to our success.
“As a business, we want to get back to a point where Chesterfield is as thriving as it once was. Taking old, dilapidated buildings and turning them into vibrant workspaces, helping local businesses grow so that we can all benefit.”