The Royal Gunpowder Mills is proud to announce the grand opening of its newly restored Grade I listed building, the Mill on the Mead. The opening event, which took place on 19 March 2025, brought together funders, employees, stakeholders, partners, and volunteers to celebrate this significant milestone.

The opening ceremony featured appearances from the Learning Programme's new living history character and speeches from CEO Andrew Macdonald and honoured guest, the High Sheriff of Essex. Guests had the opportunity to explore the spaces and newly fitted interpretation for the industrial building as well as learn about our charity's exciting plans for the future.

Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of the High Sheriff's Award for valuable services to the community to Dr Geoff Hooper. Supporting our heritage site for many years as a trustee, working on the National Heritage Memorial Fund grant was one of his key achievements and his ready support has been invaluable throughout the project.

Special thanks to the attendees representing the National Lottery Memorial Fund, National Heritage Lottery Fund, Artellier, Historic England, Bakers of Danbury, and DNCO for enabling the restoration our heritage building.