A statement from Pendle Council says: "We understand there have been a number of inquiries regarding the purchase of Brierfield Mills and terms have recently been agreed between the current owners and a purchaser, the Al Ehya Trust."

The council says the proposal would have "a significant impact on Brierfield" and emphasises the benefits it would bring.

It says the charity wants to use part of the site for an "education centre for women with a range of facilities and amenities appropriate to its size."

The possiblity of an "Islamic university" separated on religious, gender and cultural grounds would almost certainly be a national first.

The estate agents' website still says the property is "Under Offer".

The statement from the council says there have been initial discussions with the trust, but no formal approach has yet been made.

As well as announcing that current owners BSN Medical, the successors to Smith & Nephew, might stay on site, the statement continues, if the plans are approved: "We understand the Trust values the historical features of the Grade II listed buildings and will seek to retain and restore them for a mixture of uses, including offices and leisure. There would also be a range of facilities available for the local community."

The council admits: "The size and scale of the proposal indicates there is the potential for a huge benefit to the economy of the whole area, with many jobs likely to be created and new life given to this historic landmark group of buildings."

It ends by saying: "As and when formal applications are received they will be subject to the normal processes of consultation and decision-making through the Brierfield and Reedley Committee, the Executive and the council, as appropriate."

The Al Ehya Trust has also made an application to Bolton Council for a similar project at Egyptian Mill, Bolton, which is due to be heard on Thursday.

The Birmingham-based Al Ehya Trust was established in 2004 by highly-respected Sufi scholar, Hazrat Pir Alauddin Siddiqui Sahib, of Kashmir. He also owns Noor TV.

In 2005, the charity helped to support, feed, clothe and shelter 5,000 victims of the devastating earthquake in the region.

The charity says it is open to all, regardless of creed or culture.
Working alongside Make Poverty History, it has put an emphasis in this country on regeneration, employment and integration. Its website says it is imperative community cohesion is achieved.