PLANS to use a former Otley gasworks site as an HGV base have been refused.

L&G Utilities Ltd - which currently uses an out-of-town site - applied earlier this year to use the old gas yard, off Crow Lane, as an operating centre for three lorries.

The licence application was opposed by all of Otley and Yeadon's ward councillors, who feared it could compromise road safety and cause disruption.

Now the Traffic Commissioners, following a site visit by a Traffic Examiner, have announced that they have rejected the proposal.

Councillor Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) said: "I welcome the news.

"As we said at the time of the application, the site is unsuitable on highways grounds and this would have been detrimental to the amenity of neighbouring residents.

"I am pleased the Traffic Commissioners have appreciated this and refused the application."