A PLAN to create a shopping and leisure complex in Greetland has been unveiled.

And developers believe the plans for the imposing Victoria Mills site would lead to a number of new jobs.

The proposals are to take over part of the mill complex that is no longer required by the well-established Andy Thornton Architectural Antiques Company.

It would see the creation of three large shops on the ground floor and create a bar, wine bar or restaurants on three floors of the mill building.

Plans for the development have now been submitted to Calderdale Council and are open for public consultation.

The mill dates back to the mid 19th century and was built as a cotton mill on the Black Brook running through Greetland and West Vale.

It was first occupied by James Sutcliffe and Sons.

Andy Thornton Ltd was established in 1975 when entrepreneurs Andy and Kate Thornton began exporting architectural antiques to restaurants and bars in America.

Over the next 35 years, the business expanded and diversified to supply products including furniture, lighting, architectural metalwork and stained glass to hotels, bars and restaurants worldwide.

The firm now employs 160 people and Victoria Mills in Stainland Road is its flagship base.

But a report to planners says that the firm no longer requires all the space in the mill and plan to concentrate on the top three floors.

Bosses at the firm have held talks with local property agents about future uses of the mill.

A spokesman for Rone Design, who are behind the project, said part of the scheme would involve the demolition of the Low Mill building and mill house on the site.

Both currently require substantial renovation work and their demolition would free up space for a car park.

“This in turn would open up the main mill, providing a view of this partly-hidden historical asset which is essential for its continued use into the foreseeable future.

“The proposals comprise the formation of three retail units on the ground floor of the main mill, together with a food and beverage unit within the lower ground, ground and first floors of the front area of the main mill, with Andy Thornton Ltd consolidating their operation to the rest of the main mill.

“We feel these proposals will enhance the area and the main mill will once again be a prominent, spectacular building within the area.”