A housing association wants to build on the site of the former Newsome Mills in Newsome.

The grade II-listed textile mill, which dated back to 1827, was destroyed in a suspected arson attack in 2016 and only the clock tower remained.

Dewsbury-based Connect Housing has revealed it wants to build a “range of high quality energy-efficient homes” on the site.

Before the housing association submits a formal planning application it will hold two community drop-in sessions for local people.

It is understood the plans are to build “affordable homes” for local people and the proposals have been welcomed by the three Newsome ward councillors.

One of the councillors, Clr Andrew Cooper, also leader of the Green Party on Kirklees Council, said: “I am really pleased that Connect Housing are proposing to bring this derelict site into use.

“I’ve had a sneak peek at the plans and what is particularly exciting is that their plans will use the remaining walls and that the development will restore the shape of the former mill which will, I am sure, be welcomed by the community.”

The former mill ponds at Newsome Mills which have been drained for new homes

Fellow Green councillor Sue Lee-Richards said: “I would urge as many people as possible to attend the consultation events, to have a look at their proposals and to express their views and opinions. It would be good to have a strong local response to these positive proposals.”

The consultation events will be held on Monday March 27 (11am-1pm) at Castle Community Hub, Headfield Road, Newsome HD4 6LU, and Thursday March 30 (6pm-8pm) at Newsome Scout Hut, Newsome Road South, HD4 6JJ.

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