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Industrial units will not harm Burley nature reserve, planners told
Planners are being recommended to approve an application for industrial units next to a nature reserve in Yeadon.
A number of local people have sent letters of objection about the proposals for a section of land off Kirk Lane, which is next to the Engine Fields nature reserve.
But the company making the application has given assurances that it will work with the nature reserve management group, and that a large area of land will remain undeveloped.
Now, councillors are being advised to give the go-ahead for the proposals for two industrial units with offices, car parking, a 2.4m high security fence and landscaping at land on Westfield Industrial Estate.
The application has been submitted by Don Controls, a local company that builds electrical and electronic switchgear.
The company currently operates out of Horsforth, but bought the Yeadon site next to the sorting office several years ago with the intention of eventually moving to a purpose-built unit.
Members of the Leeds Plans Panel West will hear that planning permission was granted for a similar scheme in 2004 and although this has now run out, significant weight is given to it.
The report says: "The application site has had numerous planning approvals for very similar industrial schemes since 1978 and a recent approval, albeit lapsed, for a scheme of similar layout and proportions."
The company held a drop-in session at Yeadon Town hall in January to give local people information about its proposals, but the council received 22 letters of objection.
The concerns included a loss of open space, the consequences for wildlife, loss of amenity and problems from noise and light pollution.
That scheme has now been revised to take account of the concerns and a second drop-in session was held last month. This scheme prompted eight letters of objection, which voice concerns over issues including the effect on the walk and cycle path next to the proposed building. Objectors are also concerned about the increased dangers from traffic to children walking to and from school, as well as the effect on wildlife.
The report to councillors says: "A non-statutory designated site, the Engine Fields nature area abuts the eastern and western boundaries of the site, which could be affected by the proposals if appropriate measures are not implemented."
Councillors will be told that protective measures can be made through conditions if approval is granted, and it is not felt the scheme will adversely affect protected species of the Engine Fields area.
The report adds: "Security fencing will be erected around the developed area of the site. However, it is intended that the undeveloped area will remain open to the public and continue to form a continuation of the Engine Fields nature reserve.
"Given that the applicant has stated that they intend to work with the Engine Fields nature reserve management group to improve, enhance and even transfer ownership of this part of the site, a condition is suggested to ensure that the council is aware of these discussions formally, to ensure that the site is maintained to a satisfactory standard."
The company currently employs 27 staff and says it will take on another eight if the application is successful.
7:07pm Wednesday 14th May 2008
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