Land close to a former Dundee mill could be transformed into housing if plans are given the go-ahead.

The proposed site of 16 homes sits south of Pitalpin House in Lochee, which was built in 1835 and was the home of James Donald, who made linens and art canvasses at the his mill next to the mansion.

The application to Dundee City Council also includes landscaping, drainage and the building of roads.

In a statement submitted to the council, architects James Paul Associates said the proposed development would “enhance the setting of the enlisted building”.

As well as the traditional houses, which are designed to fit in with the rest of the area, extensive landscaping is proposed — including the planting of trees. According to the architects, the proposed site is “overgrown” and does not contribute anything towards the local area.

The statement said: “A lot of people cross the land and use the land for walking dogs.

“The people using the ground at present leave a lot of refuse and litter on the site making it unattractive. The proposed development would control access to the majority of the site and the new house owners would ensure that the garden grounds were maintained and thus enhancing the amenity of the area.”

The plans also include a large garden area which it is claimed will “enhance the vista of the front of the elevation”.

A new road will also be constructed — linking with the housing site with a route built by developers in the north of the 5.4-hectare site.

The site — off Pitalpin Street — has already been subject of redevelopment in recent years.

Pitalpin House itself is a listed building and has been converted into flats. At the time of its occupation by James Donald, it was unusual for a mill owner to have a home so close to his factory.

The mill passed through several owners, such as William Halley and Sons, and housed the manufacture of flax to jute and then rayon before the works finally closed in 1988.