BRADFORD Council has announced the Sun Lane planning public inquiry is to be held at Queens Hall in Burley-in-Wharfedale.

The decision follows the council carefully considering the views expressed by local residents, many of whom asked for the inquiry to be held in the village.

During the inquiry, the government’s planning inspectorate will consider a decision to approve the building of 500 new homes in Burley-in-Wharfedale.

The inquiry will begin at 10am on May 14 and is estimated to last for eight days.

However, if the planned refurbishment of Queen’s Hall overruns or if at any time the government inspector considers the venue unsuitable, they have the powers to relocate it to City Hall in Bradford which will be held in reserve in case it is needed.

Over the next couple of days, the council will be writing to all interested parties, including local residents, to advise them of the venue change.

Steve Hartley Strategic Director of Place, Bradford Council, said: “Having listened to residents, we have decided that a more local venue nearer the application site will allow easier and more convenient access for local people who may wish to attend.”