Everyone knows that – despite the Government’s desire to talk up some modestly encouraging recent figures – times remain tough for most business sectors, and not least housebuilders.

So it is entirely understandable that local authorities are choosing to relax some of the requirements that, a few years ago before the global financial crash, they would insist upon from developers. Even so, the scheme that goes before Leeds planners today for Otley’s former hospital site, which offers to make just three of 61 new homes affordable, seems to be stretching that leniency way too far.

Otley’s town and ward councillors were right to object to the developer’s earlier plan, which contained no affordable units at all, and to describe the issue as a ‘deal breaker.’ Like many local towns, Otley is crying out for new homes that local people, and especially young people hoping to move into their first place, can realistically afford.

Yes, the old Wharfedale General Hospital has been standing empty for too many years now and a development that can give new life to some of its older, listed buildings is to be welcomed.

But the scheme in question contains an affordable quota that, representing only five per cent of the total housing instead of the guideline 35 per cent, is so paltry as to be verging on insulting.

Leeds South and West Plans Panel is being recommended by officers to defer and delegate the proposal for approval. We hope the councillors instead use their right to overrule that recommendation and insist the developer comes back with a more meaningful offer.

Turbines are not inevitable

Wind turbines are often one of those issues that divide the local community – with many people either loving them or hating them.

But sometimes the public seem united in their opposition.

An application to build a 74 metre turbine on land north of Hawksworth Quarry was a case which provoked widespread opposition.

So strongly did local people feel that the proposal led to the formation of a campaign group – Menston Against Wind Turbines.

The proposed turbine – described as “industrial sized” by opponents – has been refused planning permission. Planners said it would have a seriously detrimental effect on the character and appearance of the ‘special landscape’ area.

In recent years wind turbines have often been seen as inevitable but recent developments have shown that it is not necessarily the case.

Last month campaigners against the Chelker wind turbines were also celebrating after the 45-metre high structures were finally removed after two decades.

That case showed that nothing is inevitable and that campaigners can and do make a difference.