The public is being invited to have its say on the future of Kent’s windmills.

Kent County Council (KCC) is consulting on proposals to find alternative arrangements for eight windmills across the county for which it is currently responsible.

The move would save the council around £800,000 up until 2029.

The windmills under consideration are Chillenden Mill between Canterbury and Sandwich; Union Mill, Cranbrook; Herne Mill, Herne Bay; Drapers Mill, Margate; Meopham Mill, Gravesend; Davison’s Mill, Stelling Minnis; West Kingsdown Mill in West Kingsdown, and Stocks Mill, Wittersham.

When the proposals were first announced earlier this month they were met with opposition from many.

Monica Blyth, who represents the Herne Mill Committee, said: “It is very disappointing that KCC are proposing this.

“They are iconic buildings and part of Kent’s Heritage. It’s a difficult decision I know. KCC are almost bankrupt and there are difficult decisions but hopefully they can find some funds for the mills.”

While KCC councillor Barry Lewis (Lab) was desperate Margate should not lose its historic mill.

He said: “This is another example of KCC not understanding the value of the beautiful edifices of Kent. They are potentially going to destroy our unique heritage and landscape.”

The proposal would be a change to the current strategy set out in the Kent Heritage Conversation Strategy and as such need to go to public consultation.

You can have your say by clicking on this link before midnight on January 29.

Cllr Tony Hills, KCC’s deputy cabinet member for environment, said: “We are proposing to change the ownership arrangements of the eight windmills that are currently owned by KCC, which would allow us to contribute towards closing our budget gap.

“This would allow us to make a reduction in our day-to-day spending of the amount going towards running costs and maintenance for the windmills.

“No final decisions will be made until all the information and views collected through this consultation are reviewed.”