BRADFORD could lose another of its listed buildings if a new demolition plan is approved.

A planning application to knock down the former gatehouse to the Bowling Mill Company has been submitted to Bradford Council.

The Grade II listed gatehouse on Bowling Old Lane, just off Manchester Road, is the only remaining part of the mill, and dates back to the 1860s.

However, the building is currently derelict, with one wall being supported by wooden props.

The application is by Joseph Parr builders’ merchants, which occupies the site. It says the company has looked into restoring the building, but that it would cost at least £150,000 and was uneconomical.

Instead they plan to demolish the building and use the land for parking for the business. They would also restore the public pavement and grassed area next to the building - which currently fenced off for safety reasons.

The application points out that it is the only remaining part of the old mill - which was demolished many years ago.

The building is a short distance from Douglas Mill, where the new Dixons Sixth Form College will be based from September.

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The application says: “The property is in poor condition.

“Extensive structural repairs and refurbishment are necessary to enable the building to be brought into use.

“The owners of the building have considered many uses for the building, included offices and showrooms for the builders’ merchant use. Subletting the building for offices or similar commercial use was also considered. None of these were considered viable.

“Two estimates for the refurbishment works suggested in the structural report have been obtained. These indicate the costs of the works will be very high, in excess of £150,000 and therefore not economical.”

The application describes the building as “unsightly and must be considered an eyesore.”

It says although demolishing a listed building was a “sensitive” issue “removing the building will enhance the area. Also safety issues will be removed. The visual appearance of Manchester Road will be improved.

“Although the building’s removal will be disappointing, it will have beneficial effects on the local area.”

A decision on the application is expected in April.

A recent Freedom of Information request by the Telegraph & Argus revealed that Bradford Council has given permission for six listed buildings to be demolished in Bradford over the past three years.

These were:

Structures at Lane Close Mills, Bartle Lane, Great Horton,

The former Interfaith Centre, Listerhills Road,

Former mortuary building at St Lukes Hospital, a 1970s building but within the listed complex,

Deconstruction of Keighley Railway Station signal box, and reconstruction at Irlam Station heritage site in Lancashire,

Demolition of 22 Quebec Street, which took place in response to a Section 78 Dangerous Structures Notice served by building control,

Cherry Tree Farm at Fagley Lane, which was demolished last year in response to a Section 78 Dangerous Structures Notice served by building control.