Sturminster Newton is a rural town in North Dorset approximately 9 miles from Blandford to the East and 13 miles from Shaftesbury to the North at the heart of the Blackmore Vale.  It has a current population of approximately 4500.  The town is mentioned in the Domesday Book and some present day residents can trace their ancestors back for centuries.

The last fifteen years have witnessed considerable changes, but thanks to the vision and efforts of its residents and business community the town retains its character and vitality, it remains a friendly and popular place to live, work and visit.  It is well known for The Exchange, a vibrant performing arts and community centre and also the North Dorset Trailway - a popular starting point for walkers and cyclists exploring the area.  Sturminster Water Mill is an iconic landmark alongside the rare multi-arched bridge.

 Sturminster Newton Town Council has 11 Town Councillors and 9 members of staff. 

 **Sturminster Newton Mill Reopening**

The Mill is owned by Hinton St Mary Estate and is leased to the Town Council. The Heritage Trust have an arrangement with the Town Council to run the Mill on our behalf.  The Mill has been closed to check the safety of the structure to ensure that volunteers and visitors are not put at risk.  A specialist structural engineer and a mill right recently inspected the Mill and we are pleased to report that concerns raised were unfounded.   We have arranged for some maintenance works to be done but this will not affect the Mill being open to visitors again.  The Heritage Trust have been working hard to get the building ready to reopen on the 14th June 2025 and we thank them for all their hard work.  We will now start to relook at the bigger renovation project and apply for grant funding.