Plans unveiled to turn historic mill into flats
PLANS have been revealed to transform a building of ‘significant historic interest’ from an empty former silk mill into new homes.
The proposals seek to convert Upper Paradise Mill, on Park Lane, Macclesfield centre, into 10 apartments.
It was built in 1860 and used by Cartwright and Sheldon silk weavers until this business closed down in 1981 and a few years later it became offices. But these too have moved out to leave the Grade II listed building empty and - despite efforts - unable to be relet for offices.
A planning application from developer Almand-Smith, the company that owns the mill, has been sent to Cheshire East Council.
In it a report by Neil Collins, from NC Architecture, says: “In the last two years, the mill has remained vacant and unable to be let as offices, due to changing market conditions and lack of adequate parking, rendering it unattractive to prospective commercial tenants.
“Protecting and enhancing the character of the heritage asset is of paramount important to safeguard it long term well being.
“The building has remained vacant for two years and has suffered neglect within that period of time resulting in deterioration of its character.
“The proposed change of use from offices to residential secures the
Mill’s viable and sustainable use.”
The application does not include Lower Paradise Mill, which was built at the same time and has found use as a museum depicting life in the 1930s.
Upper Paradise Mill is a five-storey building and there would be two apartments on each floor should permission be given.
As part of the consultation process public comments can be made on the plans until May 13.
The council has targeted making a decision on the application by early June.