A DILAPIDATED old mill is soon to get a new lease of life as it is redeveloped into 'much-needed' housing.

Dubbed the village 'eyesore' over the past years, Sabden's Victoria Mill has stood run-down and unoccupied until recent weeks, when builders moved in to transform the historical building.

Soon in its place will be a development three, four and five-bedroom homes, creating 30 new houses in the area. But those concerned about the heritage of the buildings need not worry as the mill itself will be renovated and redeveloped as part of plans submitted to Ribble Valley Borough Council.

Developers have made a number of unsuccessful attempts to ascertain permission for the site inDevelopers have made a number of unsuccessful attempts to ascertain permission for the site in recent years, but family-business Skipton Properties were given the go ahead back in 2018.

Sarah Barraclough, managing director, said: “We are delighted to have begun work at Victoria Fold, a development that will reflect its important industrial heritage and contain a stunning collection of distinctive and spacious family homes with high-end interiors and beautiful outside spaces.

"Buyers can look forward to living in top-quality homes where every last detail has been overseen by myself and sister, Caroline, in a beautiful area that’s surrounded by stunning landscapes, but within easy walking distance of Sabden’s shops, schools, churches, pubs and post office.”

Ms Barraclough went on to say that the development will reflect the industrial heritage of the area, confirming that historical assets will be conserved in the creation of the site.

The main mill building will remain in place and will be converted into three separate homes and the development will also include a row of new terrace cottages, which will be built to mimic the old mill workers’ homes.

Back in May, the Lancashire Telegraph reported of the relief felt in the area by local residents who were happy to see the 'eyesore' being dealt with.

Cllr Richard Newmark, who represents Sabden on the Ribble Valley Council, said: "I'm in favour of it, most of the village are.

"The mill has been empty for a number of years now, it is not looking nice at all, parts of it are falling down, it's a danger.

"The regeneration of the site with housing will be a positive thing for the area, it's much needed.

"The plans also include plenty of spaces to park cars, which was one of the downfalls before."

A Cobden Close resident, who lives opposite the mill, said: "This will be a lot better than looking at the mill currently, it's an eyesore.

"Sabden could do with a few more houses and this seems like a great development for the area."