'It's changed my life' - Workers voice fears mill could be demolished for housing

Workers at K&M Global in Saddleworth are facing an uncertain future after plans were submitted to demolish their mill and build 26 houses in its place. The auto parts business, which strips and exports Mercedes vehicle components, has become a lifeline for its employees, many of whom say they've been given opportunities they wouldn't find elsewhere.

Danny Jones, 27, the operations manager, told The Oldham Times he's been on business trips to Cyprus and America, gained multiple licences, and found stability after struggling to find decent work. 'When I got the job, I'd just been for an interview somewhere down the road, working night shifts for £8 an hour or something,' he said. 'I was walking back from that, and I was really sad.

The mill's owner, Jane Dronsfield, says she's tried to buy land to improve access but been refused, leaving her feeling 'held to ransom.' She's also attempted to move a bridleway to hide waste from view, but needs permission from the applicants who own the surrounding land. The applicants argue the development would create safer roads by replacing heavy industrial traffic with standard residential traffic.

The plans have divided public opinion, with some calling the mill an 'eyesore' used as a 'scrap yard,' while employees stress how much they rely on their jobs. Ste Grant, a former driver, said when driving wasn't the right fit anymore, the business found him alternative work rather than letting him go. With approval not guaranteeing demolition, the workers wait to see if their livelihoods will survive the planning process.