Housing Minister hears how Pendle tackles empty homes problem

Government Housing Minister Kris Hopkins visits Quaker Heights, part of his tour of Pendle, from left, Pendle Council chief executive Stephen Barnes,Mr Hopkins, Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson and council leader Joe Cooney.

He was shown three different areas in Nelson and Brierfield to see first hand how Pendle is tackling the challenge of empty homes and poor housing conditions and ways to address these problems.

Mr Hopkins began his tour in Mosley Street, Nelson, at the site of the recently demolished presbytery which is being developed for new housing.

He then visited Brierfield Mill – now called Northlight – and Quaker Heights, formerly Lob Lane Mill, to discuss how landmark Victorian mills are being transformed into stunning places to live.

Mr Hopkins said at Quaker Heights: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to come here.

“Hats off to Pendle Council.

“They’ve led this and they’re very strong. Well done to them.

“It’s good to see the vision the council’s got with PEARL. To see this at Quaker Heights which is adjacent to Brierfield Mill shows what they can do with a derelict mill.

“I’m standing in the last vacant property at Quaker Heights! That speaks for itself.”

Mr Hopkins was accompanied on his tour of the area by Pendle Council Leader Coun. Joe Cooney, Chief Executive Stephen Barnes and Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson.