A number of potential buyers are expressing interest in purchasing the historic Dalton Mills complex in Keighley, according to the Crown Estate. The estate took responsibility for the Grade II listed Victorian site after its previous owner went bankrupt and a restoration project failed.
Significant Interest and Challenges
The Crown Estate has reported receiving multiple inquiries about the site, though the exact number remains undisclosed. Dalton Mills has faced significant challenges, including the destruction of its main Genappe Mill building in an arson attack in 2022 and additional damage from other fires. Despite increased security measures, the site continues to experience frequent break-ins, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced protection.
Future Transformation’s Vision
Tim Rogers, CEO of Future Transformation, a not-for-profit organization, is among those interested in acquiring Dalton Mills. “Our vision for the site is to restore it and use it for business, different commercial lets, and community use,” Rogers said. He emphasized the importance of making the site a community asset to ensure its protection and sustainability. “The only way to protect its future is to make it a community asset. That’s the key for us as it’ll mean no single individual will own it.”
Community Concerns and Proposals
Jane Lee from the Keighley Civic Society has previously called for more stringent security measures at Dalton Mills to prevent further vandalism and arson. She mentioned being contacted by an individual planning to bid on the site to develop it into multi-use apartments and workshops, estimating the project to take ten to fifteen years. “He’s got a plan, and he isn’t the only one interested in buying the site and developing it,” Lee said, indicating a strong community interest in revitalizing the historic complex.
Legal and Historical Context
Dalton Mills has a history of being targeted by vandals and arsonists. The BBC has confirmed that the site’s two title deeds were “disclaimed” by the Treasury Solicitor in 2023, leading to the invocation of an ancient legal process known as “escheat.” Under this process, the Crown Estate, an independent commercial business whose profits go to the Treasury, cannot manage, possess, or own the property outright. However, if someone offers to buy the land, the Crown Estate can generate new deeds and retain the proceeds from the sale.
In 2013, a developer purchased Dalton Mills with plans to convert it into an arts, cultural, and wedding venue. However, these plans were never realized, and the site was instead used for TV filming, including as a location for the popular series “Peaky Blinders.”
Recent Legal Proceedings
Last week, two teenagers, McKenzie Motron, 18, from Bradford, and a 17-year-old who cannot be named, were found guilty of an arson attack that caused £15 million in damage to Genappe Mill on March 3, 2022. They are set to be sentenced on October 7, highlighting the ongoing issues of security and vandalism at the site.
Community Efforts and Future Prospects
Tim Rogers of Future Transformation underscores the urgent need for improved security in the short term. “The security of the site is paramount,” he said, reflecting the concerns of many involved in the potential acquisition and restoration efforts. His organization hopes to restore Dalton Mills and utilize it for business and community purposes, providing a sustainable future for the site.
Dalton Mills holds significant historical and cultural value, and its potential redevelopment offers a promising future for the local community. As the Crown Estate navigates the complexities of the sale, the interest from various organizations and individuals indicates a shared commitment to preserving and revitalizing this historic landmark. With plans ranging from multi-use apartments and workshops to business and community spaces, the future of Dalton Mills could see a diverse and vibrant transformation, safeguarding its legacy while adapting to contemporary needs.
