DETAILED plans for a controversial Bradford Council-backed 72 home development in Baildon have now gone on display at the town's library.

And campaigners opposed to the new housing estate on the site of the former Ferniehurst First School in Cliffe Lane West, are encouraging townsfolk to view the plans, consider the local impact and make their views heard to Bradford Council.

"This development really will effect life everyone in Baildon in our opinion and I'd urge everyone to come and see these plans, then decide for themselves," said Amy Simister, chairman of the Baildon Action Committee, which was set up to fight the building project.

Bradford Council planners have put in an application to the authority for the first two stages of a four-phase development on the designated brownfield site.

Despite that continuing designation, since the school was demolished the site and grounds have become grassed over and it is now a natural haven for wildlife. Cattle also graze on what were once playing fields, say objectors.

The mix of family homes would include 20 social housing properties aimed at helping people stay in the area where house prices are some of the highest in Bradford.

The other 52 family homes would be for sale on the private market

The total development scheme includes a further two possible phases, which though not part of the current application, would build an additional 53 properties on another part of the site.

"That would mean some 140 more cars trying to join Baildon Road every day," Mrs Simister said.

"We are going to do our own traffic survey this weekend, but that's the route people would take as Green Lane to Otley Road is already too busy to cope.

"Traffic is a nightmare in Baildon as it is, but if this goes ahead it will create a lot of new problems for everyone who lives up at the top of the village, as well as those at the bottom.

"I really would urge people to have go and have a look at the plans for themselves."

The protest is being backed by ward councillors for Baildon.

Councillor Debbie Davies (Con) said: "Not everyone has internet access and the display is very clear and shows the site, boundaries and house types, so people can be aware of what is proposed and can make informed comments if they wish.

"I asked for them to be displayed so am pleased they are at the library and will be there for at least another week."

Fellow ward Councillor Val Townend (Con) added: "It's so important as many people as possible get to see them."

Councillor Val Slater, the deputy leader of Bradford Council, said: "The details of the proposed development are available for people to see on the Council's website and at Baildon Library.

"Any comments about the scheme must be made in writing and can be submitted on the website. All comments are taken into consideration when the plans are considered by the regulatory and appeals committee."