Heritage chiefs say a Bradford mill is leading the way in a crusade to save historic buildings from decay.

But Manningham Mills, which is Grade II listed and has been on English Heritage's At Risk register for the past five years, must stay on a buildings at risk register until its regeneration is complete.

And that could take another seven years, according to John Hinchliffe, English Heritage's acting regional director for Yorkshire.

The mills are just one of 133 listed buildings and scheduled monuments across Yorkshire which were named on the 2004 register, published yesterday.

Work began last year to transform the imposing 19th century Manningham Mills into a luxury complex of penthouses, apartments, offices, businesses and possibly an art gallery.

English Heritage commissioners backed the Urban Splash scheme and invested £300,000 in the project.

There is already a waiting list of people wanting to move in but the first keys will not be handed over until autumn next year.

Prices will start at about £40,000 and go up to £200,000 for top-floor penthouses with terrific views across the city and surrounding countryside.

Mr Hinchliffe said: "Manningham Mills has been on our at risk register right from the start and it won't come off until the job is done.

"We are delighted with what's happening there. It's what being on the register is all about, raising opportunities and challenges to get these buildings regenerated and back into use. It's a call to arms for restoration and Manningham Mills are a fine example."

Four other buildings from the Bradford district are also highlighted on the list.

They are the Grade II listed Waterloo Mill in Silsden, Grade I listed courtyard entrance and walling at Upper Headley Hall in Thornton, the 17th century Grade II listed Leventhorpe Hall at Lower Grange, Bradford, and Keighley's Grade II listed 18th century mill building at Low Mills.

Kirklees Park in Brighouse has five of its buildings featured, a malthouse, two barns, another farm building and a gatehouse which once led the way to a priory.

In total 34 Grade I and Grade II buildings in West Yorkshire at risk of ruin if they are not worked on.

Mr Hinchliffe said he hoped they might all be as lucky as Manningham Mills and find grants and funding to save them from decay.