The Lancashire cotton textile industry has a rich heritage that played a significant role in the growth and prosperity of the North of England and the country since the Industrial Revolution. The industry was the catalyst for the development of many mill towns, which thrived during its heyday. However, these mill towns are now facing the difficulties of community de-vitalization and economic struggles due to the decline of the textile industry. In this research, we investigated the contemporary role of traditional British mill towns, focusing on their development process and historical significance.
The revitalisation of the mill town was approached in three phases. In the first phase, we chose the chimney, which had supported Farington's prosperity, as a spiritual symbol, and built landmarks to evoke the collective memory of the residents and bring back their lost identity. In the second phase, we attempted to adapt the layout of the settlement, which was originally built around the industry, to suit contemporary lifestyles in a changed industrial environment and social economy. In the third phase, we refocused on Farington Mill, which was the starting point of Farington, and now serves as a re-invigorated stimulus for a new life in the mill town through a rich architectural language.
Our thesis aims to underscore the importance of understanding the history and cultural significance of traditional British mill towns. By doing so, we can develop sustainable solutions that address the challenges they face while preserving their unique identity and contributing to the continued prosperity of the North of England and the country as a whole.
