Corona Chimney, Dean Clough

This is a mill chimney, built in 1857, located at the western edge of the Dean Clough site. Constructed of coursed dressed stone with a brick lining, the chimney rises to a height of 297 feet (90.5 metres). The base is splayed and chamfered to form a square, above which the chimney is octagonal. A string course and necking support a moulded cornice; above this sits a distinctive corona formed from pointed cast iron plates. A datestone of 1857 is located at the base, although this may refer to the foundation date rather than completion.

The chimney was originally associated with a boiler plant to the south and later a boiler house at the west end of 'F' Mill, and may have provided draught for the flock extraction system in 'F' Mill. The site of Dean Clough was initially leased by John Crossley in 1822, with worsted spinning and dyeing operations already underway from 1802. From 1841, a series of engine-powered mills and weaving sheds were constructed, and the Crossley family became renowned for carpet manufacturing. Subsequent development continued throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, with carpet production ceasing in 1982 following a merger and gradual decline. Remains of an attached building, now ruinous, are located to the east of the chimney’s base. The chimney is designated at Grade II for its contribution to the integrated mill complex, for its architectural interest due to the unusual cast iron corona and decorative details, and for its significance as a local landmark.