Backlash over 300 Leeds homes development

Campaigners have now held two meetings over the fresh plans by West Ardsley Development Consortium for land off Westerton Road and Haigh Moor Road in West Ardsley.

The outline planning application seeks permission to build up to 299 homes on the land, which campaigners say would “erode” green space in the area.

More than 50 objections against the plans have been submitted to Leeds City Council since the start of last month.

Local councillors also attended a public meeting in January, where more than 300
residents turned out, to discuss concerns over the proposals.

And last week, West Ardsley Action Group, which opposes the plans, held a second meeting at West Ardsley Methodist Church.

Coun Jack Dunn (Ardsley and Robin Hood, Independent) said: “This proposal will no doubt attract a great deal of local objection, it will erode what is left of a lovely local green area.

“It would also be unsustainable and highways issues would be a major concern.

“I would ask local residents to send in their views to planning.”

A planning statement, prepared by Walker Morris on behalf of the applicant, said: “The proposed development would provide 299 dwellings on the site and significant improvements to the landscape and management of the central wooded valley.”

It urged the council to grant the applicant conditional outline planning permission.

The statement said plans outlined within a design and access statement show that “a high quality design and sense of place and space could be delivered”.

The plans include provision for 45 affordable homes, according to the planning statement.