Bosses at Guiseley's world-famous Silver Cross firm say jobs could be lost if Leeds City Council planners reject a housing development earmarked for factory land.

The renowned pram makers want to sell the freehold of their site between Back Lane and Otley Road to builders Burley Developments to pay for half of a £4 million refinancing package.

Forty-three homes are planned for the southern part of the site, with the northern end being leased back by the company - safeguarding 140 of the 200 jobs - as Silver Cross slims down to concentrate on design, assembly, and dispatch.

And they are asking Leeds Council to waive some of the conditions usually applied to residential developments, including the provision of affordable housing and public open space, to ensure the deal goes through.

But members of Leeds' plans west sub-committee, which discussed a preliminary report this week, said it was ''asking a lot'' of the council.

Committee chairman Jim McKenna said the report was a 'signpost' to highlight issues surrounding the bid. He added: "I have to say there is concern that this is a very extensive scheme which takes a lot of vegetation out and doesn't provide public space.

"We are very keen to preserve jobs and will do our very best but at the end of the day, this is asking an awful lot as the application is outlined here."

The proposed area for development currently provides the main access, parking and circulation area for Silver Cross. Several modern buildings would be demolished if the plan was approved.

Company chiefs have told the city council that the decision to stay in Guiseley is dependant on the sale of the freehold.

Ward councillor Mike Dunn said he was keen to protect jobs in Aireborough but was concerned about the potential impact on road safety and local facilities.

And he urged colleagues to visit the site to assess the proposal on the ground.

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