RESIDENTS in Trawden are fighting controversial plans to transform a former textile mill into a housing complex.

But planning officers at Pendle Council have recommended approving plans to redevelop the historic Empress Textiles Mill in Hollin Hall.

The plan is to build 13 three-storey houses, 11 two-storey houses and convert the mill into 14 flats.

Pendle Council has so far received 98 letters of objections to the ambitious plans, including an official objection from Trawden Parish Council.

A spokesman for the parish council said: "We are objecting on a number of grounds which include the fact that there will be poor access to the site from the bus terminus and there are not enough car-parking spaces for existing residents.

"Other factors involved are that Traffic problems throughout the viallge are increasing and will be compounded by vehicle movements to the development site.

"Also, there is no footpath along Hollin Hall and pedestrians are forced to walk in the road around parked cars."

Locals want to see the building restored rather than being demolished to retain part of Trawden's history as the mill was built back in 1855.

Concerns were also raised from residents about increased traffic problems, not enough parking provision, wildlife, flood risks and the development changing the character of the village.

Jim Bennett, Pendle Council's planning officer, said: "Following concerns raised on conservation, car parking and flood risk grounds, the scheme has been amended.

"A total of 38 dwellings are still proposed, though the main mill building fronting Lane House will be retained and converted to 14, two-bedroom flats. The chimney and water tank will also be retained.

"The remainder of the dwellings will be newly built. Off-street parking provision for the occupants of the scheme is 72 spaces. A further 21 parking spaces are provided for the bowling club and existing residents."

He added: "The proposal is a brownfield/conservation scheme at an appropriate density and of good design, which will assist in meeting targets for new homes on previously used sites.

"Traffic and parking issues have been addressed and an element of community gain has been obtained."

Councillors will discuss the plans at Thursday night's Colne Committee meeting.