WORK to convert the Ilex Mill into nearly 100 apartments could start next month.

The mill, which has stood empty for alomst 15 years, was purchased by Rossendale Council after the collapse of the Owen Oysten Empire.

Following a successful planning application bid to the council last month, applicants PJ Livesey Living Space Ltd have now completed the purchase of the property.

Gemma Fish, the company spokesman, said: "Work to convert Ilex Mill could start as soon as September this year and it is anticipated the development will take approximately 18 months to complete."

PJ Livesey Living Space Ltd has secured a planning application for the conversion of the derelict mill into 93 apartments ranging in size from studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments and up to six roof top penthouses with views of the valley.

Residents will have access to the proposed new garden area to be created on top of the original Spinning Shed, while their cars will be parked below.

Katie Dean, Land and Estates Surveyor for the company, added that it has taken just over two years of negotiations to bring all parties to this final stage and believes it will contribute to the regeneration of this area of Rawtenstall.

Sales of the properties are expected to start as soon as spring next year when reservations can be made available from full sales particulars.