OPPOSITION is growing against a scheme to build 35 homes on a Pool-in-Wharfedale site prone to flooding.

The application to construct the properties on land behind Chapel Hill Road, along with new access roads, caught the village by surprise when it emerged in November.

The proposal, which would see a mixture of market value and affordable houses built, is only at an outline stage.

But villagers are concerned about the development's potential impact on the area's already congested roads, and about the lack of consultation before the plan appeared.

More pressingly, they are also worried about the impact of building homes on a plot which is prone to flooding - as it did, dramatically, last winter.

Pool Parish Council has teamed up with the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, which is co-ordinating opposition, to organise a public meeting next week to let residents have their say.

Steering Group Chairman Jeremy Griffin said: "Concerns have been raised over increased flood risk, lack of sustainable transportation, pedestrian safety and environmental issues.

"We are especially concerned about the lack of attention to accessibility issues.

"The site is classified by the Environment Agency as being at high risk of surface water flooding.

"We would seek assurances from the developer and from Leeds City Council regarding the knock-on effects in other parts of the village if the plans for this site were to go ahead.

"The village’s location next to a historic river crossing means it has to cope with vast numbers of HGVs as well as commuter traffic - which will only get worse with airport expansion.

"This warrants careful consideration before increasing the burden on the community."

The land to the rear of Chapel Hill Road is actually earmarked to be protected - until 2028 - under Leeds City Council's draft Site Allocations Plan, which is still to be finalised.

The public meeting will take place at the Village Memorial Hall from 7.30pm on Wednesday, December 14 and will be chaired by Councillor Barry Anderson (Con, Adel & Wharfedale).

Mr Griffin is hoping for a good turnout.

He said: “We would urge anyone interested in the future of Pool to come along to hear the latest information on these issues from the planners and developers, and to take advantage of the online planning system where you can record your views."

Comments on the proposals can be made online by searching for application number 16/06960 at publicaccess.leeds.gov.uk/online-applications/ .