AN APPEAL has been lodged against Bradford Council's rejection of plans for a 30-home development on green belt land.

Opponents of the scheme – for a mixture of affordable properties, plus a dozen allotments – claim it would put massive strain on Cullingworth's infrastructure, create a flooding risk and overload already-congested roads.

And the campaigners say several brownfield sites more suitable for development already exist in the village.

But a hearing will take place after the applicants, Partner Construction Ltd and Yorkshire Housing, appealed against the council ruling.

Dozens of people – including Shipley MP Philip Davies, and the village council – objected to the proposals.

Concerns over the loss of green belt are echoed by district councillor Simon Cooke, whose Bingley Rural ward includes the plot, at the junction of Haworth Road and Turf Lane.

"There are at least three other potential housing sites in the village all on brownfield land," he said.

"The critical issue here is the integrity of Cullingworth's green belt.

"But also there is simply no need whatsoever for this scheme. We have just had permission granted for 233 houses, including affordable homes, at Manywells.

"The applicant is trying to push for something that is not required."

Village council chairman Jacqui Guy said: "The village plan in 2004 gave an undertaking to residents that the parish council would continue to vigorously support the restriction of development to infill and brownfield sites only.

"That statement is as relevant today as it was then."

The plans include two two-bedroom bungalows, 15 two-bedroom houses and 13 three-bedroom properties, plus the allotments.