Willington Ropeworks

A Ropery is shown on the 1st edition Ordnance Survey Map measuring approximately 440 yards. A factory was established here in 1789, by Chapman, who had developed a rope making machine which did not need a rope walk. The complex was rebuilt after a fire in 1873. It was owned by the Haggie Bros of Gateshead in the 19th century and was subsequently taken over by British Ropes, now trading as Bridon Ropes. The factory now manufactures heavy industrial wire ropes, including those used on the Bowes Railway inclines.