A MILL at the centre of a controversial plan to build houses is likely to be saved.

Higherford Mill, which is under threat of demolition, is to be included in conservation scheme in Barrowford.

English Heritage has approved the project as one of eight Conservation Area Partnership initiatives to go forward from the North West.

Members of Pendle Council's policy committee agreed the CAP bid should go ahead, with measures to make sure the mill is retained.

A planning application to demolish the mill and build 23 homes has been submitted to the council. It is the latest move in a long-running battle over the mill's future.

Council development director Richard Kirby said: "English Heritage is in favour of retaining Higherford Mill. They are going to bring in specialist surveyors to look at the structure of the mill and its continued use."

Coun Susan Nike said: "The mill should be preserved as much as possible in its present form. We shouldn't be destroying our heritage."

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