A derelict mill site could be turned into 55 properties under new plans.

Four Seas Investment Co Ltd have submitted proposals to the council to clear the old Britannia Mill on Spring Street in Rishton and replace it with 47 houses and eight apartments.

The area is currently in a ‘derelict or partially demolished state’ and the homes would be used ‘exclusively for residential use’ with a mixture of two and three-bed houses and one and two-bed apartments.

A design and access statement sent to the council said: “In its taming and populating a vacant and derelict site, the proposed development actively contributes towards the reduction of crime within the area in providing a vibrant residential development.

“The development enhances the local environment and would contribute towards improving the sites current relationship with local residents.”

The plans follow soon after the drawing up of the draft Rishton Masterplan (SPD) which is expected to be signed off in the next few months.

Ward councillor and cabinet member for regeneration Clare Cleary said: “Any development down there will be welcome and we will just have to see what happens.

“Hopefully something happens as we ave had planning permission asked for on that site before and nothing has come of it. I think the SPD has generated a bit of interest.”