Packed public meeting raises concerns over housing plans (From Wharfedale Observer)

Packed public meeting raises concerns over housing plans

9:35am Thursday 17th May 2012 in Local news

More than 150 people packed out a public meeting to hear of plans to build on green space in Horsforth.

Residents, councillors, and the area’s MP Stuart Andrew attended the meeting amid concerns about proposals to build a housing development of more than 30 homes on green space at Outwood Lane, adjacent to Jackman Drive.

Horsforth ward councillor Dawn Collins said: “Officers had notified me of the submission of an application and knowing how important it is to the area I felt a public meeting to discuss the issues it raises was essential.”

The meeting was addressed by Coun Collins and Stuart Andrew. Also present were ward councillors Chris Townsley and Brian Cleasby, as well as town councillors, representatives of Cragg Hill and Woodside Residents Group and Horsforth Civic Society.

Coun Collins said it was clear from the packed meeting that any development on the green space would not be welcomed by residents – who raised a large number of points in objection to the application.

Concerns include road safety on a very narrow lane with a blind corner, loss of the view of the land and adjacent woods, the presence of a large number of trees with preservation orders on them, and the presence of protected species.

Coun Collins argued that there was no need for the housing development. She said permission had already been given for 550 homes on the former Clariant and Riverside Mills sites, developments at Woodside Quarry and Kirkstall Forge were to be built and there were further brownfield sites in Horsforth that could be used.