Menston Action Group gets support from Guiseley and Rawdon councillors (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Menston Action Group gets support from Guiseley and Rawdon councillors

9:00am Friday 14th September 2012 in News By Jonathan Redhead, Ilkley/Otley Reporter

The Derry Hill site

Campaigners who are battling to prevent hundreds of homes being built in their village have been given a pledge of support by neighbouring councillors.

The three ward councillors for Guiseley and Rawdon have stressed their backing for Menston Action Group which is planning to seek a judicial review if proposals for 300 homes in their village are fully approved.

The councillors say the homes would have a huge impact on the areas they represent – increasing pressure on local amenities such as doctors’ surgeries and schools as well as roads and public transport.

Councillor Pat Latty said: “Guiseley has been subjected to a number of new developments in the last few years, despite strong opposition from local people, so I know exactly how the people of Menston will be feeling and wish them well in their battle to defend the rural nature of their village.”

Coun Graham Latty added: “I wish Mag the greatest of success in challenging these developments. Although these homes will fall within Bradford, in reality Guiseley will bear the brunt of demand for services and the effect on its infrastructure will place a huge burden on all our local resources.”

Coun Paul Wadsworth warned: “The impact on our already-congested public transport, and roads such as the A65, will be massive if these developments go ahead. Any section 106 funding for infrastructure improvements will go to Bradford Council, despite the huge impact on Leeds.”

Proposals by Barratt Homes for 174 new houses at Derry Hill in Menston and by Taylor Wimpey for up to 135 homes in Bingley Road in the village have been granted planning permission, subject to the section 106 legal agreements being drawn up with Bradford Council. Discussions are ongoing about the agreements, which cover contributions to areas such as highways, recreation, education, health and affordable housing.

Campaigners are attempting to gain village green status for Derry Hill, to prevent development on the site.