Landmark of textile history: Herding chimney being renovated

The renovation of the historic chimney of the former Herding spinning mill on the kubaai site has been underway since the beginning of April. The aim of the project is to secure the relic from the heyday of Bocholt's textile industry as a permanent landmark and integrate it into the new city quarter. The work is expected to be completed by mid-June.

The chimney is one of the last structural remnants of the traditional Herding spinning and weaving mill. Originally around 50 metres high, the brick tower still rises some 25 metres into the air today. It stands freely on a concrete foundation in the immediate vicinity of the LernWerk.

Over the decades, the tower has been subjected to heavy wear and tear from wind and weather. In addition, it was completely backfilled with rubble after it was decommissioned. This backfilling and the associated static loads led to cracks in the masonry, damaged bricks and loosened mortar joints.

The repair work now underway includes several targeted measures to ensure the long-term preservation of the building. For example, cracks in the masonry are being stabilised by using special anchors, explains Eva-Maria Scheper from the city's building department.

Damaged or loose bricks will be replaced and the masonry will be given new joints to restore its weather resistance", says Scheper. The foundation area will also be checked and strengthened. In addition, technical reinforcements, known as ring tension bands, will be removed and replaced with a new solution. Finally, the reinforced concrete cover at the top of the tower will be upgraded to provide adequate protection against moisture and achieve the necessary structural stability.

With the refurbishment, the city of Bocholt is sending out a signal in favour of preserving its industrial roots. The chimney will continue to serve as a reminder of the importance of the textile industry for the city and at the same time as a striking landmark in the new kubaai neighbourhood.