THE site of a former engineering works could have homes built on it.

Flats and houses will be built on the Empire Works site at Howgate Road, Slaithwaite, if a planning application is approved.

Marsden-based SB Homes has submitted plans to Kirklees Council for a two-phase development next to the Huddersfield Narrow Canal.

The first would see 22 houses and seven flats built. A further 36 houses would be built in phase two.

The application says: “The redevelopment of the site will greatly enhance the area, which has fallen into neglect following the cessation of the former industrial uses.

“The introduction of variety in the proposed housing would provide choice, attract a range of population and extend the community base.

“This injection of additional residents would make a valid contribution to the town’s facilities and, of course, offer certain vitality to the immediate locality.”

Meetings have been held with the Howgate Residents’ Committee about the proposed development.

The planning applications says the scheme was well received.

It adds: “The regeneration of the redundant site, although residential, would offer further economical opportunities and would bring benefits to current social activities and facilities within the town, either through work-related contribution or financially spending.”