A COMMUNITY consultation event is set to take place next week on a proposed development at New Birks Farm, Ings Lane, Guiseley.

The farm, which is in the Guiseley Conservation Area, has been falling into disrepair for a number of years and the owners are now seeking to develop the area around the old farm buildings and are consulting with the public.

The intention would be to renovate the existing farmhouse and convert some of the adjoining agricultural buildings. Some of the existing detached structures located to the rear of the farmhouse and adjoining agricultural buildings will be demolished and replaced with new build structures to form a small residential scheme.

Planning and development consultants Johnson Mowat are conducting a public consultation prior to any planning application.

A letter was sent to local residents this week and an open invitation has been made for them to attend a community consultation event at New Birks Farm on May 18 between 5.30pm and 7pm to hear more about what is being planned.

Those who are unable to attend the public consultation event can view the material made available at the consultation, and provide feedback via the dedicated webpage https://johnsonmowat.co.uk/public-consultations/new-birks-farm.

Richard Mowat of Johnson Mowat said: "At this stage, we are seeking feedback from the local community prior to the publication of proposed plans with the intention that their views can have a meaningful impact on the design of the development.

"We are seeking to renovate the existing farmhouse and sensitively convert some of the adjoining agricultural buildings. Some of the existing detached structures located to the rear of the farmhouse and adjoining agricultural buildings will be demolished and replaced with new build structures to form a small well-designed residential scheme (circa. 5 no. dwellings).

"The long-standing vacant buildings are deteriorating and leading to a negative impact on the local area. Visually, the poor condition of the farmstead is harming the Guiseley Conservation Area, and a sensitive conservation works will create an attractive development which contributes positively to the Conservation Area. Bringing these buildings back into active use will also deter anti-social activity which the farmstead has attracted over recent years, including trespassing and vandalism.

"The community consultation event will take place on 18th May 2023 between 17:30 and 19:00, and we encourage all interested parties in the local community to attend and provide feedback on the proposals.”