MEMBERS of Burley Objectors’ Group have been appearing before a public planning inquiry into the building of 500 homes on green belt land in Burley-in-Wharfedale this week.
The Sun Lane public planning inquiry started on May 14 at the Queen’s Hall in the village. The inquiry is happening following government intervention over plans submitted by developer CEG to build on green belt at Sun Lane.
The plan has faced fierce opposition from local residents who formed the objectors’ group headed up by Bob Felstead. Members of the group have spent the week going up against developer CEG and Bradford Council at the planning inquiry with no professional representation.
Members of the group, all residents of Burley-in-Wharfedale, have submitted written statements and faced questioning from CEG, Bradford Council and the planning inspector Mr David Wildsmith.
On Friday, May 17 speakers from the objectors’ group included: Jeff McQuillan who spoke on greenbelt and special circumstances; Karl Lavery - transport and infrastructure; Simon Hoare - education; Chris Turner - flooding; Bernard Poulter - greenbelt and brownfield sites. Samantha Cook submitted a written statement on archaeology
On Tuesday, May 21 Bob Felstead spoke on several issues including employment, unemployment, population and earnings.
Local resident and retired property designer and builder, Vincent Dobson, also spoke about the special features of Wharfedale compared to the Aire and Calder valleys and the important role its green belt plays in providing fresh air, green space and quality of life for the population in this part of Yorkshire and its cities.
Burley Parish Council has submitted a 48 page representation to the inquiry. The Parish Council agrees with the Secretary of State that the proposal for 500 homes at Sun Lane needs this formal inquiry before progressing any further
Other speakers at the inquiry opposing the development included district councillors, Jackie Whiteley, Gerry Barker and Dale Smith.
Local residents have also been visiting the inquiry to demonstrate to the planning inspector the strength of local objections to the proposed development.
The planning inspector carried out a site visit on Wednesday and Thursday morning. He was faced by signs erected by local residents defending the village.
The inquiry resumes in Queen’s Hall on Thursday, May 23 at 2pm and local residents are encouraged to attend.
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