Conway Mill

About

The Conway Mill was erected as a flax spinning mill by James Kennedy & Son in 1842. Throughout the decades, the company thrived and expanded with a linen weaving factory and power loom weavers. Despite its important function in the community, the global decline in the linen industry forced the company to close its doors in 1976. 200 jobs got lost and the 100.000 square feet building became abandoned. [1]

In 1981, the Pound Loney Social Club relocated to the building and in 1982, the two main blocks in the complex were leased to community activists who wanted to stimulate, promote and support local community and economic development. Later this group would take over official ownership of the Mill. Though under poor conditions, the Mill provided space, time and support for economic, cultural and community initiatives, and became a breeding ground for many innovative businesses and projects. [1]

In the 1985, the community group formalised as Conway Street Community Enterprises Project, a non-profit organisation. However, political tensions led to a financial ban of the organisation, retracting all public funding from the initiative. A difficult time followed, in which the determination and perseverance of community members kept the initiative afloat. Income was generated through rent and donations from around the world. In 1995, the ban was lifted, and a new chapter began for the Mill. In 1999, the Conway Mill Preservation Trust was set up and in 2000, the trust realised a listed heritage status for the Conway Mill Complex. Between 2009 and 2011, the two main blocks are completely refurbished. [1;3]

Nowadays, the building does not only preserve an important part of Belfast’s history, it has also become a multi-functional space for the local community. There are 16 workspaces and enterprise units for both new and expanding businesses. There are also 20 artist studios as well as event spaces. Moreover, there is a café and gym, and the centre is home to the Conway Education Centre, a community-based education centre that provides learning opportunity for adult learners, young people and children. [1;2]

Governance

Currently, the initiative is run by the Conway Mill Preservation Trust Limited. This non-profit organisation and registered charity was set up in 1999 with the goal of preserving, protecting and restoring the Conway Mill Complex for the benefit of the West Belfast community, and inhabitants of Belfast in general. [1]

Business Model

Between 2009 and 2011, restoration of over £5million (appr. €5.680.000) took place on the Conway Mill [3;4]. A range of partners was involved in bringing together the funding for the restoration. The Department for Social Development contributed over £2.5million (appr. €2.835.000) to the project. The International Fund for Ireland, through one of its special programmes which aims to support and regenerate disadvantaged areas, investment £970.000 (appr. €1.100.000). Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) provided a small grant, as well as a low-interest loan. Other funders include the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (through the Peace II programme), the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. [3;4]