A GROWING Keighley company has been given the go-ahead to build a new warehouse near a derelict Keighley mill.

Practical Car and Van Hire is behind the scheme, for a site in Gresley Road, close to Low Mill.

Architect ECO Architecture says that due to the proposed development's proximity to the Grade II* listed mill, extensive consultations were necessary with Bradford Council – and various changes were made to the plans.

''This was an extremely challenging planning application owing to the location of the warehouse and its proximity to Low Mill," says Saj Hussain, for ECO Architecture.

"We had many meetings with the council to work around the issues, and the scheme went through several changes – including to the proposed facade to incorporate stone into the scheme.

"Thankfully all parties agreed and we were delighted that we managed to secure planning permission.

"Our client currently has a small office in East Parade, but this scheme will allow the business to expand and be in a better position to serve Leeds Bradford Airport and surrounding areas.

"Approval will enable the company to continue trading in Keighley and plan ahead for many years to come."

Construction work is expected to start early this summer.

Low Mill dates back to the 1770s and was the first cotton mill to be built in Yorkshire.

It has featured on Historic England's 'at risk' register for years, with its condition described as “very bad”.