Otley’s MP has joined the fight to save a “unique and iconic” cafe.

Gladman Care Homes is hoping to redevelop the former All Saints Middle School site that lies beside Dunnies, off Bridge Street. But its proposal – the latest version of which was rejected by Leeds City Council in June – involves the closure and demolition of the popular cafe and the adjacent Wharfe View News.

While many wish to see the “eyesore” old school site redeveloped, there is widespread opposition to the loss of Dunnies (pictured), with one local councillor calling for the building to be listed to protect it.

Now Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West), anticipating the next move by Gladman, has written to the company’s chief executive urging him to take a new approach which could safeguard the cafe’s future.

The MP said: “It is always a delight to see the crowds of cyclists, bikers and locals gathered outside Dunnies every weekend.

“It is a unique place for people to meet up for a good old fashioned bacon butty and a cuppa, and is famous throughout Leeds and beyond.

“Whilst I welcome the development of the neighbouring derelict school, I cannot support a plan that robs Otley of such an important local landmark.

“The development is a brilliant opportunity to tidy up the area while retaining a community cafe.”

Councillor Ryk Downes (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) added: “I agree the old school site is desperately in need of redevelopment. However, I believe this can be done in a sensitive way which benefits local people and does not destroy this vital part of our community.”

Gladman’s latest plan, for a 48-flat home for the over 60s, was rejected on the grounds it would be over-dominant on nearby homes and harm the conservation area and mature trees.

Wharfe View Cafe – which has been known as Dunnies, after a previous owner Mr Dunwell, for decades – has been open since 1925.