Local History

The expansion of the Lancashire Cotton Industry at the start of the 20th Century was characterised by the vast number of huge spinning mills that were erected throughout Greater Manchester. Fewer firms built double mills – many planned these but failed to build the second halves as intended.

Previous owners of the mills were Courtaulds Limited. They disposed of Mill number 3 in February of 1974. Shiloh Spinning Company (a subsidiary of Courtaulds) subsequently continued operations in Mills 1 and 2.

Mile End Estates LLP bought Mills 1 and 2 in August 2003, with the intention of bringing ‘life’ back to the mill which had by then stood empty for approximately two years. A great deal of work has already been completed on the mills with the support and assistance of the local planning authority and English Heritage.