'Deep concern' over redevelopment of fire-hit mill
BBCA petition has called on two councils to oppose any residential development at the site of a fire-hit 19th Century mill.
Big Mill, which was built in 1857, in Leek, Staffordshire, was demolished after a large fire a week ago left the Grade II-listed building structurally unsound.
The petition said the fire had led to an "irreplaceable loss to Leek's heritage" and residents were now "deeply concerned" about possible redevelopment of the site.
It calls for Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Leek Town Council to preserve the site for "genuine public benefit".
The petition, started by Jordan Williams, claims to be on behalf of Leek's residents, businesses and supporters of the town.
The fire broke out on the evening of 27 March, leading to the evacuation of nearby residents. No-one was reported injured.
An 18-year-old who was arrested on suspicion of arson has been released on bail while a police investigation continues.
The petition calls for the two councils to refuse any planning applications for housing at the former industrial site.
It also wants planning protections strengthened so it is not subject to speculative development following the loss of the listed building.
"The devastating fire that has destroyed Big Mill represents an irreplaceable loss to Leek's heritage, skyline, and collective memory," the petition said.
"Residents are deeply concerned that this loss must not lead to redevelopment that permanently alters the historic character and community balance of the area."
Developers have been trying to convert the Big Mill, which was originally constructed in 1857, for nearly two decades, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The most recent plans, submitted in 2019 would have seen it turned into 55 residential apartments.
The plans did not progress and the landmark building remained empty during that time.
The petition said the six-storey building, designed by Victorian architect William Sugden, was built during the height of the town's internationally renowned silk industry.
And the mill at one time employed thousands of local people "forming a cornerstone of the town's economy, identity, and community life".
Petitioners appealed for the councils to work together to find "non-residential alternatives", such as for heritage interpretation, a memorial space, green or civic public space.
The petition said it did not oppose regeneration but "calls for responsible, community-focused regeneration that respects Leek's industrial heritage and ensures the long-term benefit of residents rather than short-term residential expansion".
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