A proposal for a major new student development in the city has been given the green light.

Oyston Mill is to see 259 new flats created instead of the range of studios, workshops and offices which currently inhabit it.

Councillors on the Preston City Council planning committee voted overwhelmingly for the plans on Thursday (5 October), by 11 to one.

One councillor, Pauline Brown who represents Ingol, voted against the Oyston plans.

Planning consultants Cassidy + Ashton said: “The proposed use is considered to be an appropriate use within the existing building, and would bring an existing building which is largely vacant back into use. The proposed student accommodation would also be sited in a sustainable location with good transport links to Preston City Centre, would be close to existing facilities, and within walking and cycling distance of the University.”

Oyston Mill sits on the corner of West Strand and Watery Lane in Ashton-on-Ribble.

A number of previous schemes for the Oyston building have been approved in the last decade but no changes have been made.

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