An historic mill in Braintree could be converted into eight flats if a planning application is successful.

Braintree Council has received the application for Pound End Mill, in South Street, which was built as a textile mill in 1813.

Engineer George Courtauld first established a silk throwing business in 1799 at a water-powered mill in Pebmarsh.

In 1817 Samuel Courtauld III, George’s eldest son, together with his cousin Peter A Taylor, founded Courtauld and Taylor in 1817 and shortly after bought Pound End Mill.

The Grade II listed building was used more recently as a warehouse, but has since become derelict and used by squatters.

Applicant Rob Williams said: “I try to bring back buildings which are in disrepair.

“The building will never be used again for industrial use, it is in a terrible state.

“We take office buildings on their way to being derelict buildings into residential use.

“If they suit nice offices and there is a demand we can do that.

“We are not trying to upset anyone, we are bringing back derelict properties so they have a use.”

Mr Williams has also completed similar renovation projects in Cullen Mill, Witham, and Victoria Avenue in Southend.

The application details four car parking spaces for four one-bedroom flats and four two-bedroom flats on the 0.06ha site.

It said: “The existing building has been left vacant for a long period of time and has been targeted by vandals and squatters, therefore internally the building is in much need of uplift to make the place habitable and safe for future occupiers.”

Visit publicaccess.braintree.gov.uk and use reference 18/00581/FUL.