A small but significant step has been taken towards the transformation of Salthouse Mills in Barrow.

Council planners have given the thumbs up to new security measures and hopefully this will deter those who have treated it as a playground for anti-social behaviour. The repeated arson attacks are totally unacceptable to residents living nearby and those with businesses on the site merely trying to earn a living from the few buildings that are still standing.

Not only are these attacks dangerous to all concerned – including those who start them - they are a drain on the town’s hard-pressed police and fire services.

You have to wonder who the parents are – either oblivious or unconcerned to the firebugs running wild on the site.

Once a home to industry and productivity, Salthouse Mills has seen a few false dawns over the years. If the access issues can be overcome, it occupies a great location although its future will depend on someone who believes in it.

It is reassuring that the new site owners are taking positive steps as it’s a sign of commitment. Any action must be welcomed although quite how effective a large fence will prove against the determined, remains to be seen.

Let’s hope in the months to come a new Salthouse Mills can become part of Barrow’s regeneration, instead of a burned out symbol of its degeneration.