What’s next for Knoll Mill as vandals target building?

A derelict Saddleworth mill has become a playground for teenage vandals.

But the long-term future of Knoll Mill on Wellington Road in Greenfield could be resolved later this year.

The property, adjacent to Tesco store, has stood empty for nearly two decades with the majority of the Victorian-built Knoll Mill/Wellington Mill complex demolished in 2010.

But incidents of vandalism and intruders have become more rife as reported to the last meeting of the Greenfield and Grasscroft Residents’ Association.

Locals heard how intruders regularly gain access to the property that extends to approximately 8,000ft² and throw objects, including eggs, from the top floor.

The Independent’s images show how the once proud building, erected in 1852, has been targeted.

A spokesperson for the owners told us: “There is nothing inside the building.

“We are aware of the problems and do everything we can to make it secure and prevent people getting in. 

“The longer-term solution is to have some form of development for the site.”

The Independent understands there have been a significant number of enquiries from developers to take ownership of the building advertised for sale with Gunsons chartered surveyors at £650,000. A strap line carries the addition ‘big price reduction’.

The Knoll Mill prospectus suggests the mill, located in “an affluent commuter suburb” has “potential for retirement apartments.”

The building has no listed protection and could be demolished though some developers are thought to have indicated it could be incorporated into their plans.