Plans to convert a derelict historic Grade II listed mill in Macclesfield into 30 flats have been delegated to officers to approve once technical issues have been resolved, despite flooding concerns.

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.

On Wednesday the council's northern planning committee considered an application which had been submitted in 2017 to convert it into 30 two-bed flats and to provide 33 parking spaces.

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

Pedestrian access to each unit would be provided externally through the addition of external staircases and walkways provided at each level, all to the rear of the building.

Macclesfield councillor Brian Puddicombe (Lab), speaking as a visiting councillor, told the committee: "We would still welcome development on this site. It is an eyesore."

But he said it was unclear how the flooding issue was going to be addressed.

"Given the increasing incidents of flooding locally, globally as well, it seems highly likely that this development will be affected and the report confirms this with regard to the basement and I would guess the car park will flood as well," said Cllr Puddicombe.

Cllr Puddicombe, who was also speaking on behalf of fellow councillor Laura Jeuda (Lab), also raised concerns over limited parking and air quality, with the site being next to a busy road.

Would you live in the Victorian mill? (Image - CC 3.0 Clem Rutter Unchanged bit.ly/3GTHEwc)

"We think it's most unfortunate the plans do not include any affordable housing or a contribution towards green space… and we think to use the reason of viability not to provide any does send an unfortunate signal to other developers," he added.

Macclesfield town councillor Fiona Wilson said: "The acceptance of a flood evacuation plan rather than a flood risk assessment is rather odd.

"The most recent letter from the environmental agency suggests they are satisfied because the apartments are at first floor level and above, so residents will need their wellies to get to the entrance to their apartment and it's an okay risk for the car park to be flooded!"

Macclesfield councillor Nick Mannion (Lab) said although parking was less than ideal, extra spaces couldn't be created.

Macclesfield West and Ivy Councillor Nick Mannion. (Image - Cheshire East Council)

"I do think there are some key details around the walkway, around the flooding issues around the pedestrian access in and around the building," he said.

"I really do want to say yes, but I want some reassurances first".

He later proposed the scheme be deferred for a month for answers to his questions – but withdrew the proposal after officers said these were technical matters that could be covered with conditions.

Cllr David Jefferay (Wilmslow, Ind) said: "My view is that we should delegate it back to officers, and let them deal with the technicalities of it."

Independent Group Councillor David Jefferay.

Cllr Paul Findlow (Prestbury, Con) said it came down to whether the committee wanted to save the building or not.

Councillors did raise concerns about the lack of financial contributions and affordable housing because of the viability report – especially as that was out of date.

They were assured by officers that, if the scheme was approved,  viability could be revisited, so any missing contribution could be claimed back if a developer's profit is more than anticipated.

Cllr Findlow proposed the application be delegated back to officers to approve, subject to the approval of the chair and vice chair, to deal with issues surrounding pedestrian access around the development and the disabled access around the development and flooding.

The mill received listed status in 1987, and has been empty for 18 years

This was seconded by Cllr  Jefferay and 11 councillors voted in favour.

A listed building consent application for the same site was dealt with separately, and councillors were also minded to approve that application and delegate back to officers, subject to the main application having been dealt with satisfactorily.

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