A LANDMARK group of buildings could be used to house an education centre for around 1,500 women, according to town hall chiefs.

Pendle Council bosses said the Al Ehya Trust, a national charity, has agreed a deal to buy Brierfield Mills, in Glen Way.

Following discussions between the trust and council officers, it is understood that plans are now being prepared for the education centre, which will include a range of facilities for women students, aged 16 and over as well as residential amenities for 500.

Councillors welcomed the news that new life could soon be breathed into the seven-acre site, located alongside the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

Pendle Council issued a statement earlier this week in response to speculation about the future of the buildings.

The local authority said that should the plans be approved, the current use by BSN Medical Distribution Ltd will continue.

Town hall chiefs also understand that the trust values the historical features of the Grade II listed buildings and will seek to restore them for a mixture of uses, including offices and leisure. There would also be a facilities for the community.

The Trust has said it will welcome ideas and comments from residents, particularly in respect of suggested leisure facilities required in the area.

Brierfield Coun Naeem Ashraf said he was “110 per cent” behind the plans. He added: “Briefield is one of the most deprived areas in the country, but with the new housing going up as well, it’s going to be a fantastic area.

“It’s not just the education – there are plans for leisure as well, but the most fantastic thing is that no changes will be made to the Grade II listed building and it will probably be tidied up.”

Pendle Council understand that the trust will not propose to alter the external appearance of the buildings in any significant way.

A Pendle Council spokesman said: “The size and scale of the proposal indicates that there is the potential for a huge benefit to the economy of the whole area, with many jobs likely to be created, and new life given to this historic landmark group of buildings.”