The Grade II listed Bidston Windmill on Wirral has been added to Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register 2026, with urgent repairs needed to protect the 18th century landmark.
The windmill on Bidston Hill, which offers views of both the Welsh mountains and Liverpool, is one of 10 sites added to the register this year. It dates from the late 18th century, with restorations in the late 19th century and again in the 1970s.
Funding opportunities
Despite work being needed on critical elements of the structure, the site remains in use for guided tours by the Friends of Bidston Hill. Chris Langton, chair of the group, told the ECHO that being added to the Risk Register means the mill is eligible for more funding opportunities. He added: "That's the primary outcome."
Mr Langton said that "several hundreds of thousands of pounds" are likely to be needed to be spent on the windmill. He added: "The whole of the wooden roof needs seeing to. We've had quite a lot of pigeons get in there, and that's caused a lot of damage. There's a lot of wet getting inside, which is keeping the walls damp, so it's quite extensive work that needs to be done."
Despite the positives that being on the list may bring, Mr Langton added: "I am deeply concerned that Bidston Windmill, one of Birkenhead's most recognisable and historically important landmarks, has reached the point where it is being placed on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register."
Council plans for repairs
Wirral's Heritage Champion, Cllr Jerry Williams, told the ECHO: "Everyone in Wirral appreciates the importance of the windmill, and that includes me as I was born and bred in Birkenhead. It's a really key building on the Wirral."
Claudia Kenyatta CBE and Emma Squire CBE, Co-CEOs of Historic England, said: "Our historic buildings and places help tell the story of where we live and contribute to the character and identity of local communities. Each year, the Heritage at Risk Register showcases the positive impact that restoring and reusing these special places can have. The most effective way to protect our buildings is to bring them back into use as places that create connection and enjoyment for local people. The sites saved and removed from the Register this year show what can be achieved when partners and communities work together to deliver positive, lasting change. By working together, we can protect our heritage for generations to come."
Heritage Minister Baroness Twycross said: "Every part of the UK is bursting with history, so it is vital we protect the heritage sites at the heart of communities which help tell the stories of our nation. That's why our £1.5 billion Arts Everywhere Fund is so important, supporting efforts to save more than 1,000 arts venues, museums, libraries, and heritage buildings across England. The Heritage at Risk Register plays a crucial role in identifying these historic places that need our support. It's fantastic to see the much-loved site of Newlyn Harbour removed from the list this year, having received a grant from our Heritage at Risk Capital Fund. However, this year's register is an important reminder of the pressures facing our historic environment, from ageing buildings and structural deterioration to the impacts of extreme weather. I want us to build on our progress to ensure our heritage is protected for generations to come."
Repair plans drawn up
A Wirral Council spokesperson said: "Wirral Council is fully committed to restoring Bidston Windmill, which is an important part of the borough's heritage and a valued landmark. Inclusion on Historic England's Risk Register should not be seen negatively. It is something we have been working on with Historic England as it opens opportunities to access external funding to support the required improvement works. Plans have already been drawn up to undertake repairs to the roof and window shutters and install a new chainwheel. The council's intention is to secure funding and carry out the required works as soon as possible. The project presents an opportunity to enhance the visitor experience and celebrate Bidston Windmill for generations to come. Despite these challenges in recent years, Bidston Windmill has continued to welcome visitors, opening regularly during the warmer months and been a part of Heritage Open Days events."
