Keighley ‘s historic Low Mill, which has fallen into a state of disrepair, is “not considered dangerous at present” according to council chiefs.
Dating back to the late 1770s, Low Mill in Gresley Road is believed to be Yorkshire’s first cotton mill. The mill was powered by water diverted from the River Worth through a series of sluices and a goit, and is linked with Sir Richard Arkwright, the famed industrial engineer.
The West Yorkshire Archaeological Advisory Service has stated that the mill holds “of national and arguably international significance in the development of the region’s textile industry.”
However, in recent years, this highly significant building has seen better days. It now stands derelict, with parts of its exposed roof either collapsed or on the verge of collapsing.
Previous owners destroyed the Grade II* listed building’s water features, concreting over this important piece of industrial history to make way for a car park. Plans to convert the mill into flats were given the green light two decades ago, but work never commenced.
The mill’s status was brought up during the final meeting of Bradford Council in 2024, when a member of the public questioned council leaders about what measures were being taken to ensure the building’s preservation.
The Council’s response read: “Council Officers are aware that various third parties are actively looking at proposals which would involve conversion of the Grade II* listed building to the east of Gresley Road, known both as the Old Cotton Mill and Low Mill, although we are not currently dealing with any live planning applications.”
“Our planning enforcement team have been involved in the recent past to ensure that the Grade II* listed Old Cotton Mill remains in a safe condition, but there has been no recent activity or notice served.”
“Our Building Control team periodically check the condition of the building to assess if it presents any danger to the public.”
Bradford Town Hall, Centenary Square
(Image: Billy Wilson/ Flickr)
“At present it is not considered dangerous, but we continue to carefully monitor the status of the property.”
“Separately the Council has highlighted the importance of bringing the Old Cotton Mill back into use as part of its vision for the future of Keighley as part of its wider town centre regeneration programme and are working with partners and funding organisations to determine ways forward for bring the mill back into use.”
Just a stone’s throw away, a new multi-million-pound retail development is set to open in the coming months, featuring a larger Aldi store for the town, a drive-thru cafe, and a small parade of shops.
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