Land off Bradford Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale, where plans have been passed to build 14 new houses
By Sam Brooksbank
PLANS FOR 14 new homes in a West Yorkshire village have been given the green light despite residents’ fears that the development could increase the risk of flooding.
The houses and a new access road will be built off Bradford Road at the back of Endor Crescent in Burley-in-Wharfedale.
Fifty-five people objected to the plans but they were passed at a meeting of Bradford Council’s planning committee.
Resident Dr Ron Sweeney, of Endor Crescent, said: “I am very disappointed that the decision hasn’t gone our way. Due to the contour of the land, properties on here are prone to flood water.
“The A65 also floods, leading to traffic hold ups and on occasion diversions. Development will only exacerbate the problems.”
Shipley MP Philip Davies, whose constituency includes Burley-in-Wharfedale, backed the residents’ campaign.
In a letter of objection, he outlined “flooding concerns particularly as the road is often flooded close to the proposed development and Yorkshire Water say ‘the local public sewer network does not have the capacity to accept any surface water from the proposed development’.”
He also highlighted issues around pedestrian safety, access, sight lines, traffic, and the impact on the natural environment.
Stewart Taylor, of Endor Crescent said he was disappointed with the decision: “I’m not surprised. I don’t think the committee even looked at our objections and only took on board what the consultants said.
“The development has been devised purely and simply for short term profit rather than a long term asset for the village.”
The decision comes just weeks after the Government’s planning inspector confirmed the village would need to deliver 700 new homes by 2030.
The Government planning inspector also said that there will be investment of £1.2million into secondary school education, improvements to sports and leisure facilities, bus services and potential railway service improvements in the area as part of the plans.
The wider plans for Burley by developer CEG, include a new primary school, allotments, footpaths and cycle ways, green spaces, a biodiversity and nature area.
CEG said: “Through the extensive landscaping proposed as part of the development, this proposal has the potential to create new durable and long lasting boundary on its western side.
“Thirty per cent of the (700) homes will be affordable for local people, providing a mix of rented, mixed-tenure and starter homes at a discounted rate, helping young, local people access the housing ladder.”