A towering Keighley landmark has been upgraded and placed among the top eight per cent of nationally-significant buildings – including world-famous Salts Mill.

Dalton Mills recently had its status reviewed by English Heritage and has been moved up from a Grade II to a Grade II* rating.

The Grade II* listing is only awarded to a select few buildings in the UK – those deemed by English Heritage to be particularly important.

The change in listing means the mill’s new owner, Bellissimo Workspace, will face stricter controls about preserving the building.

However, it could also allow greater access to funding as English Heritage only usually awards grants to the premier listed buildings.

Proud owner Paul Harris, of Bellissimo Workspace, said he was delighted Dalton Mills is now in exalted company.

He added: “It’s fantastic the architectural significance of Dalton Mills is recognised.

“Although it might put additional constraints on renovating the site, in the long-term the upgraded listing should help to preserve its heritage.

“I think it is a beautiful building, which is what prompted me to buy it, and it’s certainly worthy of its new listing.”

Dalton Mills, which dates back to 1869, is the eighth building in Keighley to obtain either Grade I or Grade II* status.

Built by Joseph Craven, it was once the largest textile mill in the region, employing more than 2,000 workers until the decline of the industry changed its fortunes.

Mr Harris bought Dalton Mills in May and and a programme of restoration has begun, starting with the roof, which was in a state of disrepair, partly due to a major blaze in 2010.

The Clock Tower, which accounts for about 20,000 sq ft, has already been renovated and houses 26 local businesses, including Fab Lab Airedale and Autoprint.

Mr Harris is seeking local opinion about potential uses for the rest of the 200,000 sq ft site.

The mill frequently attracts interest from production companies who want to use it as a backdrop for TV or film, and it has featured in productions such as Peaky Blinders, North And South and a number of Bollywood films.