PROPOSALS are being unveiled to transform a derelict spinning mill which was ravaged by fire.

People can have their say on initial plans to restore and convert Waterside Mill in Bacup into apartments and business premises at a public consultation on Thursday.

Rossendale Borough Council has been working with Valley Heritage to find a sustainable solution for the 179-year-old building, which has fallen into a state of disrepair since a major fire in 2003.

The public consultation is part of Valley Heritage’s bid for Heritage Lottery Funding to repair the Burnley Road mill, make it stable and develop detailed proposals for its future.

Stephen Anderson, chairman of the heritage group which is made up of volunteers, urged people to attend the event and have their say on the ‘exciting’ plans.

He said: “Over the past three years we have been working closely with Rossendale Council and other partners, including Historic England, to do everything we can to secure the future of Waterside Mill.

“Although it is a challenging building and it will take considerable time and investment to save it, we hope that the proposals demonstrate the potential the mill has to become a positive part of Bacup’s future.”

In 2015, Rossendale Council carried out emergency works on the mill and it has also started the process of a compulsory purchase order to buy the Grade II-listed building.

Cllr Andy MacNae, portfolio holder for regeneration, leisure and tourism, said: “We recognise the impact that the mill’s poor condition is having on the area and we are committed to finding a solution.”

The public consultation takes place at St John the Evangelist Church, Burnley Road, Bacup, from 3pm to 7pm.