It's feared a new housing development will lead to the rural hamlet of Brunthwaite being absorbed into Silsden.
Plans to build 72 homes on land at Drabble House Farm on the edge of Silsden were recently approved by Bradford Council, despite almost 400 objections.
The application by Newett Homes would see housing built on land off Hawber Lane in Silsden.
Although it is a rural site, only a small section of the land lies within the Green Belt.
The application went before Bradford Council’s Regulatory and Appeals Committee earlier this month. Planning officers had recommended the scheme be approved, pointing out that the land had previously been allocated as “safeguarded” – land previously set aside for development.
Several objectors raised concerns about the proximity of this site to Brunthwaite – a small hamlet just outside of Silsden.
The collection of cottages and converted farm buildings is currently separated from Silsden by the site the homes would be built on.
At the meeting Councillor Adrian Naylor of Silsden Town Council said:
“We object to these plans, which would merge the town of Silsden with Brunthwaite.
“This proposed development fails to provide any meaningful barrier or visual separation between the areas.
“It destroys the hamlet’s rural identity. It removes the field system that defines the Conservation Area. It destroys the open nature of the area.”
Bradford Council’s own Conservation Area Appraisal for Brunthwaite says: “The hamlet is a good example of an 18th century farm development centred around a ‘village’ green and beck.
“The conservation area is a good example of an unspoilt agricultural hamlet in an attractive rural setting.”
At the time of the appraisal in 2005 there were thought to be just 50 people living in Brunthwaite.
Planning officers argued that the Hawber Lane development would cause “less than substantial harm” to the hamlet and Conservation Area.
Councillor Matt Edwards (Green, Tong) said:
“It is an unspoiled agricultural hamlet being smashed together with Silsden. I can’t see how that’s less than substantial harm.”
Councillor Janet Russell (Green, Craven), speaking against the plans, referred to other housing developments in Silsden, saying:
“The town has gone through a huge expansion without any investment in infrastructure.”
Alistair Curran, representing the applicants, said:
“This application is not for people who already have homes, but those who are in need of housing.
“People already in Silsden are the ones who will benefit, it will enable families to live close to one another.”
Officers pointed out that Bradford was falling behind on its housing supply. Councils are supposed to be able to show they have a five-year supply of housing sites. Bradford’s housing land supply is currently just over two years.
The application would provide homes on a site previously set aside for housing.
22 of the homes would be allocated as affordable.
Three members of the committee voted to approve the plans, two voted against and one abstained.
Doggy Days set to return to Ilkley Lido
Foley Films returns to Ilkley with new autumn programme
Spellman Care named Health and Wellbeing Business of the Year
Runners for Great North Run raise over £17,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance
Sir Gareth Southgate helps raise £23,000 for Martin House at Ilkley golf event
Ashlands Bonfire to celebrate 40th anniversary with biggest-ever fireworks display
Off-peak roadworks begin on A65 near Ilkley
Ilkley businesses become Gold Sponsor of Clarke Foley Community Hub
Ilkley takeaway named among Tripadvisor’s top 10% worldwide
McDonald's near Ilkley seeks earlier opening hours
Ilkley care home resident celebrates 106th birthday
Fresh handmade bread coming to Three Little Birds in Ilkley
Former Ilkley bistro owner teases new venture on the High Street
New Ilkley travel agency to celebrate opening with special event
Mental health campaign launched in memory of son
Yorkshire writers in spotlight at Ilkley Literature Festival
Annual golf day raises £4,383 for Airedale Hospital
The Ilkley Cow enters search for UK's Favourite Local Business
New Ilkley care home announces opening date following 11 month refurbishment
Ilkley team raises £3,300+ for The Principle Trust in Three Peaks challenge
