Walford Mil crafts, a Grade II listed mill and arts destination, closed after heavy rain caused floodwater to rise into the courtyard and the lower half of the building, affecting studios and surrounding businesses.
Terry Wheeler, trustee of the Walford Mill Education Trust, said the decision to close was taken to keep visitors and the site safe, particularly due to risks around electrics.
He said: “When the rain came down, we had to close the mill to make sure that the electrics were safe.
“We’ve got a good fuse board, so we turned off some of the electrics to make sure the water didn’t get into them.
“Obviously we’ve had to keep the fire alarms and verbal alarms going, so we’ve had to keep some power on, but we have actually reopened for the first time today.”
Floodwater built up in the courtyard, making access impossible for customers.
Mr Wheeler said: “It was impossible for customers to get through the door because of the big puddles in the courtyard, where it was under three or four inches of water.
“But we’re soldiering on.”
He said the flooding has been particularly difficult for the resident makers based at the mill.
“It’s a challenge. It’s particularly a challenge for the resident makers because for many of them it’s their only outlet to sell their wares and the art and craft items they produce.
“It’s been a challenge for them, but they’re rising to it and doing their best and helping each other out”, he added,
Mr Wheeler said the wider town is still being affected, with more rain slowing recovery.
He added: “Parts of the town still have a long way to go before the flood water recedes, and some roads are under water again today because it’s raining every day.
Walford Mill will be hosting an event on February 18, with Mr Wheeler hoping conditions improve in time.
The site includes a waterside café, open studios, exhibitions, workshops and craft markets.
