WORK is underway to transform a historic, Grade II-listed mill complex into a new residential development.

Baildon Mills is being converted into 52 apartments and houses by Leeds-based development company KMRE Group, with Hollycroft Construction appointed as the principal building contractor.

Once complete, Baildon Mills, on Northgate, will include one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including a selection of duplexes and penthouses across four buildings.

A selection of three and four-bedroom houses are being built within the grounds of the former cotton combing and wool spinning facility.

The first homes will be ready to move into later this year.

The plans were given the go ahead back in 2017, but were met with a number of objections as the mill was being used as a business centre at the time.

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Baildon Town Council said at the time: “The concern is that the daytime economy will suffer as a result of the change of use of the mills, particularly as planned apartments will in all likelihood be occupied by tenants or owners who will commute out of Baildon to work.

“This could, in turn, lead to other closures in the village and a domino effect.”

The Victorian Society threw its weight behind the town council’s comments. It said the application represented a loss of the original purpose of the premises and it should remain in "employment generating and sustaining uses".

The application was recommended for approval, as the loss of employment land would cause "relatively limited and localised harm, due to the good availability of alternative premises within the surrounding area”.

Now the development is underway, Mark Kane, who heads up Dacre, Son & Hartley’s Baildon office, said: “There are very few new homes currently being built in Baildon and certainly nothing that offers this level of heritage and character, with such a high specification, so we’re anticipating strong demand from potential buyers and have already had plenty of enquiries.

"The development also sits in a highly sought-after area, close to rail and bus links and just a two-minute walk from Baildon village’s shops, restaurants and bars, with the stunning countryside of Baildon Moor in the other direction, which further enhances its appeal.”

Nick Gould, from KMRE Group, added: “Baildon Mills offers a selection of fantastic buildings that are steeped in history and full of industrial personality, which makes it a superb development opportunity. Every home in the development will be unique and has been designed to maximise the mill’s original character features, including high ceilings and large windows that offer far-reaching views across the surrounding moorland."

He said the homes would have a contemporary finish and "exceptional specification".