A FORMER bleach works site in Helmshore is set to become a housing estate with business units.

Planners are being recommended to approve plans for the former Holden Vale Bleachworks off Holcombe Road when they meet on Tuesday.

The plan is for 12 two bed flats in four three-storey blocks and 29 two-storey four to five bedroom houses in staggered terrace or semi-detached.

The developer is also planning four 5,000 sq ft units and a 70,000 sq ft unit and five living and working units which provide three-bedroomed residential accommodation.

One letter of objection has been received from the proprietor of Holden Vale Hotel and Conference Centre.

He says a mix of residential and industrial use is not suitable for safety and would create noise for residents, the land is designated industrial and the buildings should be of natural stone construction or faced in stone.

Officers conclude: "This mixed employment/residential development preserves the employment function of the site while utilising an area of the historical industrial curtilage of the former bleachworks complex for residential purposes."