BRAMHOPE and Carlton Parish Council is urging residents to attend a consultation about a scheme to create more than 300 new homes.

The village was shocked to discover, just before Christmas, that Miller Homes had been successful in its appeal to proceed with a plan for land between Breary Lane East and Leeds Road.

Hundreds of residents had objected to the original, outline proposals which first emerged in 2013 and were for up to 380 homes, a convenience store and a public open space.

Leeds City Council rejected the application, but that decision has now been overturned by a planning inspector, supported by the Secretary of State for the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Miller Homes will unveil more details about its scheme - now described as being 'for 317 high quality new homes' - at a consultation event at West Park RUFC this week.

Councillor Barry Anderson (Con, Adel & Wharfedale), reacting to the appeal decision, has warned that the new housing would 'change the character of Bramhope forever'.

Bramhope and Carlton Parish Council Chairman Councillor Simon Cooper, meanwhile, is determined that residents' views should still be heard as the plan moves forward.

He said: "Miller Homes applied for planning permission to build on this land in October, 2013.

"There were over 900 responses from residents, the vast majority against the development.

"Leeds rejected the application primarily on the grounds that it was premature as its Site Allocations Plan, identifying building land for the next 15 years, was going through the consultation process.

"Miller Homes promptly appealed...and the Secretary of State has decided to allow it to build - but there are 33 conditions that must be met.

"It is expected Miller Homes will submit revised plans as part of a new planning application.

"The parish ouncil and ward councillors are disappointed by the outcome of the appeal, though it follows several successful appeals by major builders against LCC planning policy.

"We will now read the result in detail and consult with, and work alongside, the ward councillors and Leeds in order to decide our future approach to this planned development."

Villagers will be able to comment on the proposals in The Clubroom of West Park RUFC on Thursday, January 5, when the consultation will run from 4.30pm to 7.30pm.

Cllr Cooper added: "Residents in the vicinity of the site have already received letters from the agents for Miller Homes inviting them to the public consultation.

"This is an informal event open to all Bramhope residents.

"Members of the public will be able to look at the development proposals and discuss them with the development team.

"We will also attend to gain further information. At all times the parish ouncil will endeavour to reflect the views of residents and act in the interests of the community."

More details about the scheme can be found at millerhomesbramhope.co.uk .