COWPE Mill should be converted so it can remain part of the Rossendale Valley's heritage, according to the Civic Trust.

Lancashire-based Hurstwood Group has bought Kearns' Mill in Cowpe and is hoping to develop it for a housing and community project.

The historic mill could be transformed into apartments if the company receives planning permission from Rossendale Borough Council planning committee.

But Kathy Fishwick, chair of the Rossendale Civic Trust, said it was vital the plans were carried out in consultation with the community and in a way that kept the best parts of the mill.

She said: "We want to see the best parts of the mill kept as it is a very important mill structure in the area and vital for Rossendale's heritage.

"We would certainly favour conversion of some kind but how this is done and for what purpose needs more discussion."

Hurstwoods have promised to consult closely with the local community before making any final decisions.

Stephen Ashworth, Hurstwood's chairman and group managing director, said: "We have just completed the purchase of the building and are in the process of drawing up detailed plans for the project.

"Our hope is that we can save substantial parts of the existing mill building, which is part of the heritage and history of Cowpe. We plan to build new homes on the derelict parts of the site which cannot be saved.

"We will be working closely with the local community to come up with a plan that is sympathetic to the existing area and one which will bring real and lasting benefits to the community.

"We have only recently completed the purchase and this project is still at a very early stage. Consequently, it is too early to say how many homes will be contained in the final plans, but rumours of 120 homes are absolute nonsense. As soon as we have more detailed proposals we will make them public."