The project will see the world’s first iron-framed building redeveloped.

A start on site is dependent on a successful £12.8m bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund this summer.

Construction can then start in September with local trade contractors now being urged to express an interest in helping with the work.

The first phase of work aims to restore and bring back into use some of the main historic buildings.

These include the Main Mill – the world’s first iron-framed building – the Kiln, the Dye and Stove House and the Office and Stables.

The site would be opened up to allow people to visit and learn about its long and interesting history, and space would be provided for business and commercial use.

Wates will be the lead contractor but a proportion of the work at the site will be subcontracted out.

Local and small businesses who are interested in being involved redevelopment of the site are being urged to register their details with Wates quoting reference Construction Enquirer at [email protected]

Andy Hands, Business Manager for Wates Construction in the Midlands, said: “We are looking forward to starting construction later this year and will spend the coming months in consultation with local sub-contractors to ensure that this is a truly local project for local people.”

Sub contracting opportunities will exist in the following areas:

·       Masonry
·       Carpentry
·       Roofing
·       Cast-iron specialism
·       Architectural metal work
·       Glazing

Plant suppliers

Cranage; operated plant; generators; tyre repairs

Materials suppliers

Aggregates; concrete fixings and concrete accessories; builders’ merchants; timber and plywood; joinery / doors; ironmongery; fabricated metalwork / secondary steelwork; signage; reinforcement