HISTORIC street lighting has been removed from the conservation area of Addingham and replaced by "modern monstrosities".

Appalled residents and ward councillors are now demanding the removal of the modern galvanised columns, which they are say are out of keeping with the historic nature of the conservation area, and the return of the pre-Second World War lighting columns.

Councillor Adrian Naylor (Ind, Craven) said: "They brought these modern monstrosities into a conservation area without any consultation with ward councillors or Addingham Parish Council.

"These historic columns are valuable and I have asked them to stop the process and return the columns already removed.

"I have also asked that Bradford hold discussions with the parish council. If this had been Saltaire there would have been detailed discussions and appropriate replacements made from a special fund."

Keith Appleyard, from Addingham Planning Scrutiny Group, added: "These lighting columns are historic and probably date from the 1930s. The would cost a fortune if we had to buy them now, so I am concerned as to where they have gone.

"They could easily be refurbished and a new head put on them. They have been refurbished in the past – a little care now will see them last another 75 years at least."

Mr Appleyard has written to Bradford Council conservation officers on behalf of Addingham Planning Scrutiny Group requesting a complete inventory of what has been removed.

The e-mailed letter states: "The group has observed that a number of traditional lamp standards have been removed from within the Conservation Area in Addingham, to the detriment of the character of the village.

"We are unaware of any planning application or process, which might have authorised the changes. It is our view these lampposts represent an important element within the Conservation Area, and the original lampposts should be restored, refurbished and reinstalled in historic positions.

"We request you consult your colleagues in planning control, on our behalf, to establish the planning status of the current and historic work, and that you advise us of your findings accordingly."

The Gazette and Observer believes Bradford Council lighting engineers are in discussion with heritage officers to see if it is possible to provide lighting columns more suited to the conservation area.