ROSSENDALE real ale enthusiasts will soon have something to celebrate after council planners gave the green light to a micro brewery in Ramsbottom.

The Atlas Works, formerly an engineering mill in Princess Street and Irwell Street, has been chosen for the new site to host Irwell Works Brewery Ltd.

Sara D’arcy, of Garden Street, Great Harwood, is planning to create a micro brewery and a visitor centre in Ramsbottom’s old industrial quarter.

Her plans include a licensed bar on the first floor of the old mill, with accommodation for the resident licensee on the second floor as well as disabled access to the premises.

But she said: “The primary function of the building is to house a working craft brewery as a tourist attraction and secondly as a bar selling beer.

“Our food will be sourced locally as will our staff and services.

“We intend to work closely with East Lancashire Railway, local businesses, the Heritage Society, the Ramsbottom Show and the Second World War weekend.”

Council officers said the development would not harm the appearance of the conservation area nor would it be detrimental to highway safety.

The centre, which may open this summer, will be allowed to trade from 10am with entertainment in the evening running until 11pm.

It is understood the character of the original stone structure will remain with the retention of a weather vane on top of the building.

No objections were received from residents in the area.

Atlas Engineering was previously located at the mill, which has been vacant for three years.