EXTERNAL renovation work on a previously derelict section of Keighley's historic Dalton Mills complex is complete.

Scaffolding has been removed from the front of the Genappe Mill area and construction workers are now focussing on the interior.

It is hoped the refurbishment will be complete in time for tenants to move in this spring or summer.

"We are really pleased with how quickly the work has been carried out and how it has gone," said spokesman Laura Bacon.

"There is such a massive difference in how the mill looks from a year ago and the project has generated a lot of interest and positive feedback.

"We have been talking to a couple of prospective, national tenants and those discussions are ongoing.

"The next aim is to renovate the water tower. It is currently in quite a poor state, and could need taking apart and reassembling."

Genappe Mill encompasses about 80,000sqft of the landmark Dalton Lane site.

Owner Paul Harris – who bought the complex in 2013 – said "great strides" had been made with the restoration of the mills, which were ravaged by a massive blaze four years ago.

The fire caused huge damage at the site, particularly to the New Mill at the rear, and the future of the Grade II* listed structure was thrown into jeopardy.

But Mr Harris embarked on an ambitious programme – supported by English Heritage – to bring the whole of the 200,000 sqft site back into use.

Its Clock Tower has already been converted into a thriving office development, which was almost fully let for much of last year.

"We are on track to have the first batch of commercial space available in the Genappe Mill and are in consultation about uses for the rest of the site – which could include a hotel, leisure facilities or a museum or heritage centre," he said. "We're happy to discuss any potential opportunities."

Dalton Mills was built by the Craven family and remained in its ownership from 1866 until 2004.

In its heyday of worsted yarn production, more than 2,000 people were employed at the site.

Over recent years the iconic building has featured in several TV and film productions, including Peaky Blinders, North and South, Sunday Life and Bedlam.

It has also become popular with supernatural enthusiasts, hosting a number of events staged by ghost-hunting companies.

Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls commented during a tour of the site that the mill was a monument to past success but also a huge vote of confidence in Keighley's future.

Call 01535 690714 for details of business opportunities at the site.