Proposals to build 39 town houses on the site of a former medical centre in Burley will be put under the spotlight at a public exhibition.

Bellway Homes is inviting the local community to view its plans to redevelop the former site of the NHS Moor Lane Centre, for new homes.

Bellway Homes Ltd feels it is important to involve local people in the initial stages of developing its ideas and shaping proposals for the vacant site.

Members of the public are welcome to drop in, view the proposals and provide their comments which will then be used to help guide the project.

The former mental health respite centre which stood in this location closed its doors to patients in 2009 following a decision made by Bradford and Airedale Primary Care Trust earlier that year.

The reasons for its closure, which were identified through meetings of Bradford Council's Health Improvement Committee, included problems with its system. Also members felt the need for in-patient services was dwindling and that facilities at the centre were dated.

Patients who used its services were angry after it was decided to close the facility.

Independent Councillor Chris Greaves said: “It is hardly the best road. The reality of this is that it will increase traffic on a bad road. My question is whether this will benefit Burley at all.

“Turning hospitals into housing doesn’t strike me as a good way forward. I would ask what is in it for Burley.”

The company will then prepare and submit a planning application to Bradford Metropolitan District Council in the New Year.

The public exhibition will be held on Tuesday, December 18, between 3pm and 8pm at the Salem United Reformed Church, Main Street, Burley-in-Wharfedale.