PLANS have been submitted to build 100 apartments and shops at Albion Mill.

And Rossendale Civic Trust has held talks with architects in a bid to stamp out any potential niggles over the redevelopment of the Rawtenstall mill.

The mill, off Bacup Road, used to be Tomlinson Footwear but has been empty for nearly a year.

The trust runs the nearby Weavers Cottage Heritage Centre, one of the finest remaining examples of a purpose-built 18th century loom shop.

But members were angered by the recent Ilex Mill development, which is next to Albion Mill and was converted into luxury flats, saying it caused traffic problems.

The trust admits it is "very worried" about the new development but plans to head off any difficulties by being involved at the planning stage.

Cathy Fishwick, from the trust, praised the developers for holding meetings with members.

She said: "It's very early days but it's an empty site and something does need doing to it.

"We are very worried, that's why we are talking to the architect. But the architect we are working with is showing a bit of sensitivity to it.

"It's a very busy road and if it's going to take more traffic from another development, it could be an absolute nightmare.

"These people are thinking right from the word go about traffic, access and design and how it's going to affect the whole site.

"Provided it's not environmentally damaging, we just want it well-designed.

"We appreciate the interest the architect has shown and the way he is looking at the cottage and conservation area in context.

"It's an excellent start. We may have disagreements as things go on but at the moment at least we have got somebody who is good enough and understanding enough to look at the whole scene.

"How it turns out is anybody's guess but at the moment we have have set off on the right track."

A Rossendale Council spokesman said: "The application is for outline planning permission.

"It is now in the consultation period which means anybody who wants to comment or send in letters of objection in to the council can do so. The earliest the application will be heard will be August 2."