EMERGENCY repair work will be undertaken at the derelict Ilex Mill in Rawtenstall to prevent masonry falling from the building.

Concerns were raised after stones became dislodged by trees and shrubs growing on top of the mill in Bacup Road.

Scaffolding has now been placed around the building in readiness.

A spokesman for Rossendale Borough Council said: "The building is owned by the authority so it is our responsibility to carry out repairs. The work needs doing as a safety precaution."

It has also been confirmed that negotiations between a developer and the council are ongoing in a bid to convert the derelict mill into flats for residential use.