A field study carried out between 2 and 16 September 1970         by Andrew Hinder

Gloucestershire Society for Industrial Archaeology                 Download the report

This 185 page report was prepared as part of the course work carried out by the author when studying Geography for a B.Sc degree at the Sir John Cass School of Science and Technology at the City of London Polytechnic.

Chapter One describes individual present-day factories within each valley. Chapter Two examines the potential for further industrial development following a description of the present labour force, power resources and transport facilities.

The remaining chapters are concerned with evidence for the history of the woollen cloth industry. Chapter Three outlines within each valley the possible history of each mill or factory, using landscrpe and architectural evidence as far as possible. In the following chapter is an assessment of other landscape features, including disused mills, allowing some estimation of the former importance of the woollen industry. The main processes nvolved in woollen cloth manufacture are outlined in Chapter Five.

In conclusion, a history of the woollen industry, leading up to the present industrial pattern is outlined.

A key feature of the report is the extensive use of photographs which illustrate. distinctive landscape features and industrial sites whether used or derelict.