A lively debate is expected when Ilkley Civic Society holds an open meeting about the forthcoming Bradford District Local Plan next Thursday.

The meeting, at Church House, Church Street, is open to members of the public who may have concerns about the Local Plan Core Strategy.

The strategy is expected to enter a six-week comment period shortly, prior to a public inquiry.

Although the number of houses planned for Wharfedale has been reduced, Ilkley is still required to provide land for a further 800 homes up to 2028 – and the Civic Society is concerned this will mean building on green belt.

The society says there are very few sites that can be used within the boundary of the town and Bradford Council has indicated that land currently designated as green belt will have to be used.

It is asking residents if they feel Ilkley’s rural setting makes it distinctive, if they would like to see this maintained – and if they are concerned about the lack of infrastructure, such as transport, school places, jobs and health facilities.

The meeting starts at 7.30pm.