By Don Mort, local democracy reporter
New flats could provide much-needed housing under plans to convert part of a fire-damaged former mill complex.
Nine apartments are proposed for the disused ground floor and outbuildings at Swallow Hill Mills in Wortley.
Planning permission is sought from Leeds City Council for the scheme, drawn up by Medipharm Bradford Ltd.
A design report said: “The site is that of the former mill which has been empty for a number of years and has suffered fire damage to the front lower section.”
Consent was already given by council planners in early 2024 for 18 flats in the upper floors of the building.
The report said: “Our application is for the conversion of the ground floor to nine apartments, similarly to those approved above.
“This will ensure the long-term future of the building.”
The report said the building had fallen victim to vandalism over the years it had stood empty.
It added: “The proposals, together with the previous approval for the upper floors, will provide much needed housing and help Leeds City Council meet its five-year housing delivery targets.
“There are a good level of local services and amenities including schools, shops, pubs, restaurants and recreational spaces within the immediate vicinity.”
It said: “Occupants of adjacent properties are keen to see the site developed and the building being brought back into use.”
A full planning application is out for consultation until July 22. The plans can be viewed in full here.
The mill building had been subjected to a number of arson attacks, and WLD put the building’s history in the spotlight back in January 2022.
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