Historic EnglandA 19th-century kiln that once belonged to a porcelain factory that produced jewelry and tableware for the royal family is to be saved from its decaying state.
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council received over £77,000 from Historic England to fund work on Rockingham Kiln in Swinton.
The bottle-shaped kiln is one of the last surviving elements of the Rockingham Porcelain Factory.
The council expressed its “delight” at the opportunity to restore the structure and open it to the public once it is completed.
The Grade II listed building, dating from 1815, was part of the Swinton Pottery, which grew out of an earlier factory founded in 1745.
The internationally renowned porcelain factory produced extravagant ornaments and table services for the royal family and the nobility, including King William IV.
The site changed ownership several times until it was run by John Brameld and his sons in 1806.
They began experimenting with porcelain and although the Rockingham Pottery was not financially successful, it became famous under the patronage of Earl Fitzwilliam, who lived at nearby Wentworth Woodhouse.
The pottery remained in operation until 1842.
“Valuable heritage”
Due to its poor condition, the kiln was added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register in 2022.
Historic England’s grant of £77,528 will help fund necessary repairs and provide public access so local people can enjoy the stadium.
Historic England said it was proud to have played a role in securing the future of this “valuable part of Rotherham’s heritage”.
Leanne Buchan, Head of Creative Programming and Engagement at Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, said: “The council team has worked tirelessly for years to bring this project to life and to demonstrate in a creative and sensitive way the important role this place has played in both the borough’s and national history.”
Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC SoundsFind out about the latest Episode of Look North or tell us a story that you we should cover here.
