Planning go-ahead for new homes in Brierfield

Planning approval has been given for a multi-million pound development of 55 new homes in Brierfield on a prime canalside site.

It's hoped that work will start on the Lob Lane Mill site within weeks.

Pendle Council's Brierfield and Reedley Committee gave the go-ahead for the project at its meeting last night, (Tuesday September 7, 2010).

It was told that English Heritage had withdrawn most of its earlier objections to the plans, following talks with the Council.

But English Heritage remains concerned about one issue - the proposed demolition of the mill chimney.

A request was submitted for the mill to be declared a listed building but this has been turned down.

This means that there should be no delays to the scheme and work can go ahead as approved.

The mill is owned by the Council and it's intended that it will be redeveloped through the Council's joint venture company Pearl 2, which comprises the Council and  Barnfield Investment Properties. The scheme is supported by funding from Regenerate Pennine Lancashire.

The plans, by IWA Architects of Clitheroe, will see the creation of 12 four-bedroomed town houses in the main mill warehouse and engine house. Nine of these will have the option for workspace on the lower ground floor.

Meanwhile other buildings on site, including the old weaving shed and boiler house, will be demolished to make way for 31 new two and three-storey houses and 12 apartments.

The mill site had been derelict for many years before the Council purchased it in January this year.

Committee Chairman Councillor Tonia Barton said:

"This is a really positive decision for this area and we welcome it. 

"The fact that a developer is willing to work with us on what has been a dilapidated site is good news. 

"The developer has also consulted with residents and taken their views on board in these plans.

"I'm delighted we are keeping the canal frontage, which is the most appealing part of the site. 

"Once it's complete, residents will have stunning views of Pendle Hill. 

"Lob Lane Mill will be a lovely place to live!"