MORE than 50 new homes could be built in a £6 million development if an application is given the go-ahead.

Calico Homes has announced plans to build 48 two and three-bedroom houses and bungalows, as well as 12 sheltered flats, at the Primrose Mill site off Harrison Street in Briercliffe.

An open day is being held tomorrow for residents to find out more about the proposals and give their own views.

Calico bosses said the development will also create four apprenticeships if the homes are given the green light, through its Constructing the Future Lancashire scheme.

Ed Barber, of Calico, said: “We’re delighted to announce this important investment in the area.

“The development will have a positive impact on the area, will provide essential affordable housing for local people, and will create a number of new jobs in the community.

“We’re looking forward to engaging local residents in the development process. It’s very important that they are involved and are able to influence crucial decisions that will affect them.”

A spokesman for the housing provider, which owns and manages more than 4,500 properties in Lancashire, said the homes would be available for sale and rent, and would meet ‘specific housing needs’.

He said work on the site would be expected to begin later this year if permission is granted.

Primrose Mill, the former home of Sweet Dreams Ltd, has been empty since a massive fire in July 2005.

The bed company has since moved to new premises off Colne Road, Burnley.

A stone’s throw from the Queen Street Mill museum and opposite St James's Church, the old mill site is part of a conservation area.

The open day is at Briercliffe Community Centre on Jubilee Street, from 5pm to 7pm tomorrow.

For more information call Claire Morris 01282 686300.