In December 1978, the National Trust published plans to restore the mill to working order.

There was opposition from local people, although West Norfolk District Council were in favour of the plans.

They were directed by Norfolk County Council to refuse the application due to the inadequate highway in the locality which did not have the capacity to cope with large numbers of visitors.

[2] Two new 62 feet (18.90 m) long stocks of Jamaican Pitch pine were fitted on 17 July 1985, and four new sails the following day.

The cap is winded by a fantail and the four Double Patent sails of 12 bays[2] are carried on a cast-iron windshaft.

[4] The silo in the 2014 anime film When Marnie Was There is based on the Burnham Overy Staithe Windmill.