Brierfield Mill (now Northlight) sits on the east bank of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and was built in 1832 as a steam powered Cotton Mill. Covering over 37,000 square meters it was one of the largest Mills in the area employing around 1,200 workers at its peak. It was also one of the last Mills to close; it was still producing textiles in the form of surgical bandages until as late as 2010.
The Mill is closely associated with the nearby gas tower, known as the Brierfield Gas Holder. Constructed in the early 20th century, the gas tower was part of the infrastructure that supplied gas for lighting and heating to the mill and the surrounding community.
Brierfield Mill was also involved in the labor movements of the early 20th century, reflecting broader social changes. Workers organised for better wages and working conditions, contributing to the rise of trade unions in the region.
Pendle Council purchased the Mill in 2012, and as part of ‘Northlight’ regeneration developed the site in partnership with Barnfield Construction. The once enormous mill warehouse floors have been skillfully redesigned into apartments, businesses, offices, industrial and storage spaces.
Not open to the public.