A MAJOR restoration project has taken a major step forward.

A 99-year lease has been secured for the Mill One building at The Leigh Spinners Mill complex on Park Lane.

The Leigh Building Preservation Trust (LBPT), which already has a 99-year lease for the other mill, known as Mill Two, has agreed the move with the site's owner Leigh Spinners Limited.

As part of the agreement, the trust needs to secure half of the £23,000 needed to carry out temporary repairs on the roof.

Leigh Spinners Limited has pledged to cover 50 per cent of the funds while the trust has said it will pay the other £11,500.

The short-term roof repair will stop the heavy water leaks and prevent it from collapsing.

It will allow the trust to apply for financial support such as Lottery funding.

LBPT chair Peter Rowlinson: "We will announce a crowdfunding campaign soon but if anyone wishes to donate they can write a cheque or make a donation to the Leigh Building Preservation Trust.

"Come along to see us on a Saturday morning or make contact with on our Facebook page or by emailing info@leighspinnersmill.co.uk.

"We will be delighted if donations of £20 or more can be made."

The ground floor and offices at Mill One are still in use but the rest of the building is empty.

Recent repair works at Mill Two has also attracted the attention of businesses who have expressed an interest to move into the historical site.

Most of the second floor space will be used for sports when it is expected to be opened in September.

Table tennis, archery, bowling, an exercise centre and cheerleading will be held there.

Most of the third floor is under offer for organisations to set up base there with two companies already signing contracts to make it their home.

LBPT is in talks to take control of the fourth floor as well, with two businesses interested in moving in.