The iconic early 19th century net loft at the edge of Polperro harbour has been restored by the National Trust.

The Grade II listed net loft opened for the first time at the weekend (June 18) with an exhibition by local photographer Lisa Wollett.

The repair work was able to take place on the historic building over the last 12 months, thanks to a grant from Viridor Credits and money raised through the National Trust’s Neptune Coastline Campaign. 

The building has for many years has stood empty in its prominent position at the edge of the harbour.

The NT says it hopes the net loft will now become a staple community building.

Given its exposed position, the restoration work was carefully timed to make the most of the mild weather and calm seas.

The NT says the building has been sensitively restored and weather sealed to protect it for many years to come. It is entirely off grid; the roof is integrated with solar slate PV tiles, there is low energy LED light throughout. 

Lead ranger Andrew Simmons said: ’It’s great to see this building being brought back to life.

’It’s one of the most recognisable buildings in Polperro, and it will finally be part of the village again.

’This is something we want the local people of Polperro to be proud of and be able to use daily, and as a bonus will delight visitors and holiday makers to the area, helping them to connect with the rich fishing history of the village.

’We’re looking for local volunteers who might want to run the daily management of the building, so that the community can truly take ownership of it, they can directly manage what it’s used for and how it will help the local residents of Polperro.’

A local volunteer working group for the net loft is being assembled by the National Trust ranger team. For more information call 01726 870146 or email [email protected].