PLANS for 133 homes on a disused mill site in Brighouse have been approved.
A Calderdale Council planning committee backed the plans - against the advice of officials.
Officers had recommended rejecting the scheme for the former Firth Carpets site at Victoria Mills, Bailiff Bridge, because they said it should be kept for employment.
But the committee of councillors approved the plans of Turley Associates, after hearing that a community centre, a library and public open space would be part of the scheme.
Turleys expect the scheme to be finally approved when it comes before the full council this month.
Clive Brook, planning director for Turleys in Leeds, said: "Victoria Mills had previously been used for employment and officers were unwilling to grant permission on a scheme that did not use the site for these purposes."
But he said the location and the condition of Victorian buildings meant it was not "appropriate" for modern offices or industry.
Following final approval, housebuilder David Wilson Homes will build a mix of detached and terraced houses and flats.
These will provide accommodation ranging from one to five- bedroomed homes. Parking spaces would also be provided.
Objectors to the plans say the area already has enough houses and that the scheme will hit wildlife.
