Plans to re-open the Bradford Canal could be boosted by a proposal for nearly 50 homes at the site of a former mill.

Gleeson Homes said it would give a strip of land to Bradford Council if its plans at the former Oswin Mill site in Shipley were backed. Under the deal, the Council would maintain the land as “public open space or as part of the proposed Bradford Canal restoration scheme”.

The plans are to turn the old mill site on Gaisby Lane into 45 two, three and four-bedroom homes – more than three years after permission was initially given to build more than 100 flats there.

Proposals could also see about £250,000 paid to the Council to go towards affordable housing, or split between affordable housing and education provision.

A statement from Graham Edward, of Edward Architectural Services, the agents for the developers, said the scheme “respects” the 1.23 hectare site, which has been cleared of old, derelict buildings.

“Detailed and careful consideration has been given to the proposed layout,” the statement said.

“The proposals create a development that not only respects the site and its surroundings but also creates a high-quality development in this location.

“In light of the evidence submitted in support of this application, it is considered that consent should be granted for the proposed development.”

Gleeson Homes has only recently bought the site, but has already revealed it intends to sell homes at prices from £106,995 and hopes to start work early next year.

Sales manager Sarah Humphries said: “There is a clear need for brand new, traditional family homes in Shipley and we look forward to transforming what is currently a derelict site into a new development of stylish homes priced to suit local buyers.”

The panel is expected to meet early in the New Year to discuss the scheme.