Paton’s Mill on Marine Avenue, a B-listed building also known as Chapel Works, has deep roots in the town’s industrial heritage.

Built in 1795 by the Paton brothers as a linen and rope works, the mill supplied the shipping industry before closing in 1967. It later operated as a whisky bonding and bottling site before closing permanently in the 1990s.

Plans to regenerate the site into affordable housing were submitted in 2020, with work by George Martin Builders completed in early 2025.

The development has preserved the building’s historic façade and now offers 26 one- to three-bedroom apartments for social rent.

A striking new public artwork, designed by an S2 pupil from Montrose Academy, has been unveiled to celebrate the completion of the regeneration of Paton’s Mill. Pupils, teachers, and Hillcrest Homes staff gathered for a special event to mark the occasion.

The artwork, which spans four-and-a-half metres and features nautical illustrations in tribute to the mill’s connection to the shipping industry, was created by Autumn, aged 13, during her art classes.

Seven pupils submitted designs for consideration, with Autumn’s ultimately selected to be installed as a permanent public artwork for the local community to enjoy for years to come.

David Milton, head of development at Hillcrest, said: “This has been an exciting project, preserving such an iconic and historic building.

“Involving Montrose Academy pupils in the creation of a public artwork has resulted in a fantastic mural that will be a valued community asset for years to come. All the submitted designs were fantastic, and all participating pupils should feel immensely proud.”

Neil Galligan, teacher of art at Montrose Academy, added: “We’re delighted to have had the opportunity to contribute such a prominent piece to the community, and Autumn is absolutely thrilled to see her creativity brought to life.”

Runner-up artworks will be displayed gallery-style in the main lobby of Paton’s Mill.