Historic former mill building to be be transformed into luxury flats

PART of an old Dundee textile mill is to be converted into luxury apartments.

The oldest remaining section of the former Lower Dens Works is due to be transformed into 24 flats, including loft-style units, with views across the Tay.

The development by Carnoustie-based Brunton Design, on behalf of applicant Stables Dundee, was approved by Dundee City Council this week.

Once converted, the B-listed building, on the corner of Constable Street and Dens Street, will have a central courtyard, parking and an entrance hall.

This will feature refurbished mill machinery, in a nod to its history as a flax warehouse.

Allan Mudie, of Brunton Design, said: “We are delighted to have been granted planning approval for this sustainable and viable conversion.

“We have worked closely with planning officials and Historic Environment Scotland.

“They were all keen to see the building reused and could not have been more helpful.

“The development will restore a number of the original elements of the building, retaining its historic character and ensuring that it remains a key part of Dundee’s industrial heritage,” Mr Mudie added.

Built in 1828, the building was originally a flax warehouse and formed part of a complex that was once the largest linen mill in the world – Baxter Brothers’ Dens Works.

The building has since been used by a number of businesses, including Blackscroft Auto Centre, but has been in a state of disrepair for a number of years.

Adjacent mill buildings within the Lower Dens Works complex have recently been developed into serviced apartments and a hotel.

In a design statement for city planners, architects said some of the flats will form private accommodation while others will be serviced apartments for tourist rentals.

Most of the properties will have two bedrooms.

The report added that promoting the building’s history formed an important part of the design, as well as providing a sustainable future for it.

It said: “A sense of balance is the aim in order to provide a sustainable and financially viable development which can bring long-term investment and employment to the city.”