A PLANNING application to develop a property within the heart of Ilkley's conservation area has been withdrawn.

The proposal was for the addition of a first floor to the existing bungalow at 1A Ben Rhydding Drive, Ilkley, plus a single storey rear extension. The application also sought permission for adjustments to the front elevation to make it symmetrical, plus window and doors updated.

Ilkley Town Council was among those who had objected to the application on the grounds of "overdevelopment of existing dwelling and loss of accessible bungalow dwelling."

Eight other objections had been made to the application online including one from Neil Varley, secretary of the Ben Rhydding Drive Association committee who objected on behalf of the association's members.

Ilkley Civic Society also recommended refusal of the application saying: "Ilkley Civic Society still has considerable concerns regarding the resubmitted proposals for this key site within the Ben Rhydding Conservation Area and believes the proposals remain a missed opportunity."

The applicant withdrew the application this week.