An old mill which until recently was being used for storage is to be turned into 17 new homes after plans were given the green light.

An application to demolish Croft Mill in Lowther Lane, Foulridge, and build properties on the land with private gardens, access roads and space for 34 cars, was submitted to Pendle Borough Council on July 11 by family-run residential developers, Skipton Properties.

And last week, following the submission of minor amended plans, officers from the council’s planning department gave full approval for the development, which will see 13 three-bed and four four-bed properties erected on the site, complementing the character of the surrounding area.

A planning statement lodged with the council read: “The residential units, which will be spread evenly throughout the site, will provide a mix of three-bed and four-bed detached and semi-detached family houses.

 “The proposal looks to accommodate a new access point located along Lowther Lane providing access to the residential properties for both residents, and refuse/service vehicles.

“The proposals engage with the new road which runs through the centre of the site, whilst the design also considers the adjacency of the surrounding buildings.”

Croft Mill has been most recently used for storage purposes but was vacated on May 30.

Previously, it is understood the site was occupied for 35 years by Croft Mill UK Ltd, a supplier of textiles and fabrics, which ceased trading from the site in 2008

There were no major objections to the plans, except a recommendation from the Flood Authority, seeking concerns over drainage to be remedied before any permission was granted and/or work started.

Alongside this, East Lancashire Hospitals Trust has asked for a section 106 contribution of more than £29,000 before they can offer support to the plans.