RESIDENTS of Burley-in-Wharfedale say they are shocked to learn of a fresh threat from developers to the village's green belt.

Retirement housebuilder McCarthy and Stone is proposing a housing development on the green belt on the church field, off Weston View.

The proposal follows hard on the heels of a 500-house scheme in the green belt on Sun Lane which is awaiting consideration by the Secretary of State.

The latest proposal came to light when an ‘invitation only’ meeting organised by the developers was publicised on the Burley Parish Council website. A number of concerned residents took the opportunity to view the plans. Harvey Bosomworth, a spokesman for the residents said: "The elevated site proposed for development is directly between St Mary’s Church and the A65 at Weston View, and is an intrinsic part of the conservation area by contributing to the setting of a group of listed buildings.

"In Bradford Council’s Burley-in-Wharfedale Conservation Area Appraisal it is described as a key open space, containing a number of key views, as well as a number of important mature trees.

"The church field site proposed for development is a greenfield site in the green belt, and is an integral part of the Burley in Wharfedale conservation area, making a vital contribution to its uniqueness of character and architectural interest.

"In addition, it is surrounded by Grade II listed buildings, including St Mary’s Church and Burley Hall, and is in close proximity to the Grade I listed Burley House.

"This proposal directly affects the historic centre of Burley-in-Wharfedale and it is hard to imagine a more sensitive location. Although the land has been put forward by the owner as a possible development site, its unique position and its contribution to the historic form of the village makes it totally unsuitable."

Local MP Philip Davies has already expressed his opposition to the proposed development and Wharfedale ward councillors, Jackie Whiteley, Gerry Barker and Dale Smith, have all indicated their opposition to green belt development.

Cllr Whiteley (Con, Wharfedale) said: "This is another example of an opportunistic developer trying to secure planning consent. Green Belt is a very precious commodity and should not be built on unless there are very special circumstances to warrant it.

"I shall speak against this application because along with many local residents I fear the chronic lack of infrastructure in the village will make living in the village problematic and I hope our green belt can be saved."

Cllr Smith (Con, Wharfedale) added: "The development is entirely inappropriate. I will make every effort to see it is refused or at least called in by the minister."

A spokesman for McCarthy and Stone said: "In the first step we invited members of the local community to let us know the issues we need to take into account in drawing up our plans. We are committed to a full and open consultation with local residents. Should the scheme move forward, we will be holding a public exhibition to allow residents to give us their views.”