A MULTI-million pound project to restore Leigh Spinners Mill has taken a crucial step forward this week as the latest plans for the site are approved.

Supporters of the grade II listed mill has been granted planning permission for a new fire escape, staircase and lift by Wigan Council.

The building, described as the most important late era mills in the UK, is on the Historic England Buildings at Risk Register due to problems with the fabric.

As part of the redevelopment efforts, the mill has attracted 31 tenants offering a range of services and community spaces on site including sporting activities.

But authorities found that the fire escape at the back of the building could not be used which limited the number of tenants able to occupy the mill safely.

Peter Rowlinson, chairman of Leigh Building Preservation Trust, says the majority of tenants have ‘remained loyal’, but the unusable fire escapes have to be addressed.

He said: “The works are essential to bring the building back into full productive use, creating jobs, new heritage and community facilities.”

The new fire escape will be located on the opposite side to the main entrance.

Eleven letters of objection to the planning application but officers felt many were opposed to the "wider aspirations"for the mill.