VILLAGERS are fighting 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 campaigners say several brownfield sites more suitable for development already exist in the village.

Their concerns over the loss of green belt have been echoed by 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,” said Cllr Cooke (Con).

“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.”

Cllr Cooke has met about 20 residents to discuss their fears over the proposed scheme. Several have already submitted objections to Bradford Council.

Joanne Mitchell, of Turf Lane, said: “The proposal is wholly wrong for this area.”

But Councillor Michael Ellis (Con, Bingley Rural), while accepting there will be opposition, said he welcomes the possibility of new houses for rent.

“The applicants have offered to work with the village council and the fact it would be involved in nominating local tenants for the properties has got to be good,” he said.

“The scheme would also meet a need for housing for elderly people, with bungalows included.

“And there would be allotments, including some with raised beds for disabled users.”

Village council chairman Jacqui Guy said the application had been recommended for refusal by its planning committee.

The plans – submitted by Partner Construction Ltd and Yorkshire Housing – include two two-bedroom bungalows, 15 two-bedroom houses and 13 three-bedroom properties, plus the allotments.

Yorkshire Housing new business and development director Ged Walsh said: “The new homes will be let to people in need of an affordable home, mainly from the local area.”

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