A NEW dawn is breaking for Radcliffe's Sun Mill.

Demolition work has begun on the Seddon Street eyesore and the site will undergo a £2.25 million transformation.

The site is being developed by Manchester Methodist Housing Association with funding from the Housing Corporation, Bury Council, and private finance.

Work is expected to be completed by the end of the year when 43 houses and flats will be available for sale and rent.

Radcliffe Central councillor Kevin Scarlett, who is chairman of the council's social services and housing committee, said he was delighted by the scheme.

"The mill was a horrible eyesore and a real blot on the landscape which attracted vandals. Saying that, however, it is in a really nice location overlooking a lovely stretch of the canal, so it's a perfect spot for housing."

The former mill had been divided into units and used by small companies, but in the last couple of years it has grown increasingly derelict.

The one surviving business, a mouldings firm, will be relocated to Sion Street.

Coun Scarlett said: "The new housing this creates will meet a growing need. In addition, Radcliffe schools, shops and services should all benefit from an increased population."

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