Expansion plans by a firm which stepped in to save 120 jobs at a Bradford textile company hang in the balance today.

Planning officers fear a bid for a major expansion of the mill shop operation at Lister's Mill could hit trade in the city centre and other established retail areas. But today the shopkeepers were split over the effects of the project planned at Manningham North Mill.

Textile company Haddow Holdings of Canal Road bought Lister Fabrics 18 months ago and saved the jobs of nearly 120 workers. The mill shop is an integral part of the business.

But the company wants to extend the existing fabrics range to include furniture, bedding, kitchenware and leisure and sportswear. The new area plus the existing shopping floor space would take up five per cent of the total floor space of the Grade Two buildings.

The officers admit the best way of ensuring the long term viability of any listed building is to keep it in use. But they say the company has failed to give an adequate reason why the goods they wish to sell cannot be sold from the existing retail area.

They will also point out to Bradford Area Planning sub committee, which will consider the company's planning application on Thursday, that no off-street car parking is proposed for visitors - although about 60 extra spaces would normally be required. The officers will also tell members they believe the proposal would harm the viability and vitality of existing centres.

But vice president of Bradford Chamber of Trade Jim Griffin said he did not agree the existing centres would be hit by the proposals - and they might even bring more people into the city centre. "I don't think the items they propose to sell are widely offered in the city centre."

Chairman of Bradford Retail Action Group Jeff Frankel, however, said: "I am in agreement with what the planning officers say."

A spokesman from Haddow Fabrics said he did not want to comment until after the meeting.

The massive south wing of the mill - which includes the landmark chimney - is on the market and in the hands of administrators. Bradford Council has submitted a bid to buy the South mill.

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