Completed in 1900, Mill 3 is the final and most prominent of the three historic cotton mills that form the Eckersley Mills complex. Despite its scale and architectural presence, the building had been underutilised for many years, accommodating temporary uses that failed to reflect its potential as a major employment and destination asset within Wigan.

Originally consented for conversion into 137 residential apartments, the vision for Mill 3 has evolved to align more closely with the successful transformation of Mill 1. The building is now being reimagined as a mixed-use business and leisure destination, responding to the ambitions of the wider Cotton Works masterplan to create a vibrant, sustainable neighbourhood combining residential, commercial and leisure uses.

Mill 3 is being sensitively repurposed to deliver high-quality commercial and leisure accommodation, carefully balancing contemporary intervention with heritage conservation. A new central lift core is introduced within the original rope race, providing modern, inclusive access from both the north and south elevations while respecting the building’s historic fabric.

At the heart of the scheme, the impressive, but dilapidated, triple-height engine house will be fully restored to form a dramatic and welcoming main entrance. The adjoining single-storey boiler house will also be renovated and brought back into active commercial use, further animating the ground floor and strengthening the building’s relationship with the surrounding public realm.

The proposals unlock the full potential of this landmark building, delivering premium workspace and leisure uses that support local economic growth and align with Wigan Council’s regeneration objectives. Through careful restoration and thoughtful adaptation, Mill 3 will be re-established with a strong and coherent identity, securing its long-term future as a key destination within the town.