A FAMOUS windmill will stay open for at least another year after the authority found £40,000 to keep the sails turning.

On Monday, Anglesey Council’s Executive approved a “one off” bid to keep Melin Llynnon in Llanddeusant open to tourists.

The authority had proposed to farm off the running of the mill, with the then-borough council having been responsible for its restoration in the early 1980’s, remaining as the only working windmill in Wales.

But after no suitable groups came forward in time, the authority decided to open again this tourist season despite the expenditure heavily outweighing the income it generates.

According to the report discussed this morning, this year’s budget will result in the council spending a total of £66,800 on staffing and maintenance costs, expecting to recoup only £24,670.

But Councillor Meirion Jones, said that it was important that the island’s tourist attractions were supported, confirming that discussions over its future running were ongoing.

“Melin Llynnon’s situation is unique and is an iconic site on the island,” he added.

“I’m thankful of this recommendation.”

“Its important that the mill stays open and if the council has to pay for another year, so be it,” added Cllr Richard Dew.

But Cllr Carwyn Jones, was slightly more cautious.

“The mill and cafe are vital tourist attractions but we can’t continue to subsidise to this degree every year,” he said.

“I agree we should continue for now but we can’t do this every year.”

According to the officers’ report, it had been considered that the mill could have been transferred to an unnamed “interested party” without following the requirements of its Asset Disposal Policy.

But this option was dropped following the advice of the authority’s monitoring officer and the principal valuation officer.

The report notes, “The transfer of Melin Llynnon to a third party (either to a private sector business or community group) has been ongoing for some time and the Executive has agreed to market the Mill once again in line with the current Asset Disposal Policy.

“Whilst this process takes place, the Mill will remain open as a visitor attraction for the 2018 season with the Council being responsible for the costs of staffing and running the site for a further year or until the Mill is transferred to another body.”

While there were once over 30 working windmills on Anglesey, all had fallen into disrepair by the early 20th century, with the once thriving industry thought to have been lost forever.

Melin Llynnon was specifically earmarked for restoration due to it still retaining much of its original machinery, albeit in a deteriorating condition.

With work starting in 1978, the sails at have been turning since 1984, usually open from March to October.