New Film Unveils Secrets of Newlyn’s Historic Ice Works

A new film produced by Barbara Santi of Awen Productions for the Newlyn FISH Trust sheds light on the historical significance of Newlyn’s Former Ice Works.

This short film captures the essence of the building’s storied past, featuring professional studies and interviews with local residents, including two former employees. The film is a crucial step in the Trust’s ambitious plan to transform the ice works into a fishing heritage centre.

Project Development and Key Findings

Between April 2023 and March 2024, Newlyn FISH Trust received grants from the Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) and Penzance Town Council. These funds enabled the Trust to enhance its organisational capacity and refine its project proposal. The project development phase produced several significant outcomes:

• Greenwood Projects Ltd provided acquisition advice and project development recommendations, revising the project budget and redrafting the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) Expression of Interest.
• Sara Hilton Associates conducted a stakeholder engagement analysis and Trustee recruitment, resulting in the appointment of four new Trustees.
• Dorothea Restorations delivered a preliminary report on the ice works machinery, including a detailed Statement of Significance.
• Tom Skipp, a photojournalist, captured extensive photographs of the ice works and the Billy Stevenson Collection of historic artefacts and images.
• Integral Engineering Design updated the Initial Structural Condition Report of the building.
• Target Geo Ltd conducted a measured building survey, producing detailed plans and cross-sections.
• Awen Productions created a promotional film to boost community engagement and awareness.

Machinery of International Significance

One of the key findings of the project was the preliminary assessment of the ice works machinery by Geoff Wallis of Dorothea Restorations. The study revealed that the machinery, dating back to the early 20th century, holds international significance. Installed in 1907-8 by Richard R Bath, the ice-moulding equipment cast large blocks that were crushed into ‘nub’ ice. This machinery was later upgraded by William Stevenson & Sons in the 1970s to produce flake ice, maintaining operations until the ice works closed in 2005-6.

The surviving equipment, including early designs by Carl Von Linde of The Linde British Refrigeration Company, provides a unique glimpse into nearly a century of technological advancements in industrial refrigeration. This historical treasure trove is not only of local but also of international importance.

The Future of the Former Ice Works

The Newlyn FISH Trust aims to transform the Former Ice Works into a fishing heritage centre, ensuring the building’s long-term maintenance through various uses. Located centrally in Newlyn, the ice works is deeply connected to the town’s heritage and many local families. The preserved machinery offers tremendous potential for research, interpretation, and community engagement, promising economic benefits for the area.

Watch and Share the Film

The film aims to elevate the profile of the Former Ice Works and the Trust’s vision among funders, decision-makers, and strategic partners. It also seeks to garner ongoing community support and engagement. The Trust encourages everyone to watch and share the film to help preserve and celebrate Newlyn’s rich fishing history. For more information visit the Newlyn Fish Trusts Website.