Waterside Mill in Greenfield could be converted into 59 apartments and 26 new homes for people aged over 55, under plans recommended for approval by Oldham council officers.
Tanner Bros (Greenfield) Ltd has applied for planning permission to demolish 'poor-quality buildings' on the site, convert the older mill buildings into flats, and build 26 homes on part of the land. None of the development would be on greenbelt land.
The site sits near Chew Brook on the edge of Greenfield, below Dovestone Reservoir. The cotton mill was built by the Buckley family in 1838 before being bought by the Tanner family in 1919.
Mill's history and change of use
Over the last century, the mill's industry moved from cotton mule spinning to tyre cord weaving and dental floss before becoming a local business centre. The mill's owners say the buildings are now at the end of their economic life.
The mill would be converted into 'high specification apartments', with the addition of a fourth floor that was destroyed by fire in 1966. A planning statement said it was 'a time for change' and the plans would give the mill 'a new lease of life'.
Development features and concerns
Alongside the new homes, the development promises 'spacious landscaped courtyards' and a 'village environment', set against a 'dramatic Pennine landscape' and 'unique setting'.
The plans are due to come to an Oldham council planning committee on October 21, as the development is considered major and officers are recommending approval. Three people living in the area raised concerns about flood risk, access to the site, the 'overlooking of neighbouring properties on lower land', and property sizes being too big for those looking to down-size.
Owners' response and other plans
Planning documents attached to the application said: "The owners are long-standing family members who have been custodians of the site over many decades adapting to changes in the economic climate and ensuring the retention of the historic fabric of the buildings as best they could.
"Similarly, in the light of economic constraints, they have made a positive decision to move forward with a planning application which will provide a sustainable future for this unique historic complex and will enhance its immediate surroundings."
At the same committee meeting, councillors will also consider plans for up to 37 affordable homes on land at the back of 69 Broadway in Royton. These would all be affordable but have faced objections from a number of people living nearby.
