A FIRST phase of new homes has been launched on the site of a former mill.

Skipton Properties is converting Grade II-listed Ebor Mills at Haworth into 16 homes and building 24 houses on the site.

“Ebor Mills dates back to 1819 and it seems fitting that two centuries later the site is being completely regenerated and given a new lease of life – after many years of neglect,” said a spokesman for the company.

“We acquired the site in 2018 and have since worked tirelessly to create a development that honours Ebor Mills’ historical significance and suits its surroundings. Our final plans were designed in close collaboration with heritage and environmental experts and we also engaged with the local community.”

The £10 million scheme was approved last August by Bradford Council’s regulatory and appeals committee, despite more than 60 objections – citing concerns ranging from traffic issues to the loss of a ‘green corridor’.

Skipton Properties says the original mill chimney is being retained and an old boiler house is being restored and kept as a “historical asset”.