Plans for a multi-million pound retail complex in Brighouse on the site of a former flour mill are expected to be unveiled within a fortnight.

Sugden Mill, which closed in October 1997 after trading for more than 168 years, is set to be transformed into a retail park.

The mill was one of the oldest businesses in the area and provided jobs for generations of families before the business was relocated to Manchester by parent company, Allied Mills.

Now Calderdale Council says the development scheme near the town centre will provide a much-needed boost to the area.

The project aims to provide a new swimming pool, improved access to the canal and aims to attract large retailers near the town centre.

A Council planning spokesman said it was an exciting project and more details would be revealed in an outline planning application.

He said: "We will release more information in the next two to three weeks with an artist's impression.

"It will be a multi-million pound scheme and we hope to attract large warehouse units, which will complement shops nearby."

Bill Terry, programme manager of Brighouse Regeneration Forum, said the plans should be welcomed by residents.

"If it does go ahead, it will be extremely good for the area by creating jobs and facilities. We would certainly be the development centre of Calderdale."

He also revealed that work was also underway to bring more businesses into the area. Mr Terry hopes that large supermarket giants might want to open up another store in a thriving area.

The project is being developed in partnership with the Council, British Waterways and Associated British Foods which has a stake in the 70,000 square-foot site.

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