WORK is starting on the long awaited development of Tonedale Mill – the former site of Fox Bros.

The first batch of workers moved onto the land last week in what is hoped will be the conversion of run-down buildings into apartments and flats.

Residents at nearby Weavers Reach are now holding their breath, as this has happened several times before, without any building work taking place.

One of the workers said the plans were to complete the first floor level of flats by Christmas. Matthews Bale, of Taunton Deane Borough Council’s planning department, has been contacted to ensure the work is carried out as per the planning granted for a Grade One listed heritage site.

Sheikh Holdings, which is listed as the owner, has been unavailable to discuss any details.

A council spokesman said: “There is an extant planning permission for the conversion of the buildings to apartments. There is a current application to vary conditions on that permission but it has not yet been issued as it is pending a legal agreement.

“Planning permission is not needed for station workers’ accommodation on site while they are carrying out the development.”

One man who appeared to be in charge said he was working for a company called Heveco UK Ltd. The WWN has made repeated calls to the company without reply.

THE old Fox Bros site at Tonedale Mill has been an eyesore for years. Its buildings have been a target for thieves and a danger to children.

The site has been virtually untouched since Fox Bros virtually closed down in the 80s, having once been the largest woollen mill in the South-West, employing more than 1,000 workers.

In 2000, television star Deborah Meadon and Douglas Cordeaux invested in Fox Bros, allowing production to continue at Tonedale, after the company had been in danger of falling into bankruptcy. The company has since prospered with a full order book.

BARRY KNOTT