Plans to convert a derelict historic Grade II listed mill in Macclesfield into 30 apartments have been recommended for approval.

The Albion Mill, on London Road, was built in 1843 as a silk mill and, since then, has had numerous uses.

In 2004 planning permission was granted for 16 three-bed flats but work stopped in 2009 because the scheme proved unviable.

The mill, which has now been vacant for the majority of the 21st century, is in a poor state of repair and Cheshire East's planning officers are recommending this latest application be approved to secure the long term future of the building, even though the proposal doesn't include any affordable housing or contribution towards green space funding because of viability issues.

It used to be next to a pub, which was shut in 2012 and knocked down four years later. (Image CC 2.0 Unchanged bit.ly/3GTwjw9 Clem Rutter)

In a report due to go to Wednesday's (January 18) meeting of the northern planning committee, the council officer says: "It is considered that, on this occasion, the substantial benefit of bringing the listed 'landmark' building into use, after such considerable amount of time, thereby helping to sustain its future, outweighs, on balance, any harm that would be caused by the lack of developer contribution and limited parking provision."

The proposal is to convert the mill into 30 two-bed flats and to provide 33 parking spaces.

The planning officer's report states: "In order to maximise the number of flats [to make the scheme viable], pedestrian access to each unit will be provided externally through the addition of external staircases and walkways provided at each level, but all to the rear of the building.

"Few external alterations to the front and sides of the mill are proposed, with all of the existing window and door openings remaining."

The final vote on its fate will take place at Macclesfield Town Hall on Market Place.

Macclesfield South councillor Laura Jeuda (Lab) has objected to the scheme.

She said the development should provide ten affordable homes and appears to provide none and she asked whether the education contribution of £83,000 is to be provided as it is 'badly needed for our schools'.

Macclesfield Civic Society has welcomed the proposal to find a 'viable and sustainable use for this prominent building'.

Cheshire East's planning officer has recommended the application be approved, subject to conditions and a financial contribution towards local education facilities.

2023 is the building's 180th anniversary. (Image - CC 2.0 bit.ly/3XCDHBV © Copyright David Weston)

The officer stated: "Overall, it is considered that this scheme can be viewed in a positive light, as it repairs and enhances a building of architectural and historic importance.

"Furthermore, and more importantly, it is accepted that the proposed change of use would preserve Albion Mill, its character, and would not detract from the setting of the mill."

An application for listed building consent for the conversion of the former mill, which will be considered separately at Wednesday's meeting, has also been recommended for approval.

The northern planning committee meeting takes place on Wednesday, January 18, at 10am at Macclesfield Town Hall.

The mill received listed status in 1987, and has been empty for 18 years. Read more on the history of the building here.

The site is within walking distance of the town centre and Macclesfield FC.

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