COUNCILLORS have given the go-ahead for a new Scout and Guide headquarters at Burley-in-Wharfedale, despite concerns about traffic.

Keighley and Shipley Area Planning Panel yesterday approved the application by Burley's First Scout And Guide Group to replace its 1960s-built Peel Place Scout hut with modern facilities.

The plans have split villagers, however, with more than 30 objections to the proposals, while the council says 88 representations in support of the plan have also been received.

In the report to the planning panel, officers said: "On balance, having considered the representations from Peel Place residents, and on the basis of a number of meetings with the applicant, officers accept the increased size of the building mostly aims to improve the quality of the meeting space and other facilities rather than to accommodate a substantial expansion of the Scout/Guide groups beyond what presently exists."

A chief concern of objectors has been more traffic generated by the new building.

They fear the bigger premises, and staggered meeting times for youth groups, will lead to an almost permanent flow of traffic down Peel Place between 5pm and 9.30pm almost every night of the week.

Residents say the traffic flow to and from the current Scout hut has increased noticeably during the past two years, with regularly six to ten cars dropping children off and then picking them up after meetings.

Objectors have also highlighted that the new building is bigger than the current premises, arguing there will be inadequate turning space for vehicles and a lack of space for passing.

They are additionally concerned about the impact on neighbouring houses, including additional noise and blocking of light to homes.

Supporters of the scheme say the new headquarters will provide much-needed modern and expanded facilities for the Guiding and Scouting groups in Burley.

They argue Burley in Wharfedale Scout and Guide Group "does a huge amount of good for more than 300 young people in Burley-in-Wharfedale".

Burley Parish Council recommended approval subject to a review of the 'swept path analysis' to ensure the minimum loss of existing street parking places in Peel Place.

It noted the Scout and Guide Association argues there would not necessarily be an increase in traffic.

Officers recommended conditions be attached to planning approval.

Ward councillor, Jackie Whiteley, (Con Wharfedale) was not at the meeting, but has studied the objections and local support, feels the new building will be of benefit to the community.

She said: “In my view, this is not going to make any great difference, there’s always been an issue about parking in Burley. I think we have to make compromises as it’s such a resource to the community.”