There is little evidence of the much-vaunted big society, involving communities in decision-making, in the probable outcome of three planning decisions for large housing schemes which are likely to be decided in the next few days.

The strength of local opposition to both the Sty Lane, Micklethwaite, and the two Menston developments is a clear indication of how little they are wanted.

The schemes represent well over 700 homes between them, and will have a major impact on the surrounding environments, which is causing grave concern for the many objectors.

But it seems likely that both will be granted approval by Bradford Council planners at meetings on Friday and next week.

Thousands of people have objected to the Sty Lane development and a huge turn out of protesters is expected for Friday’s meeting. The objectors are particularly concerned about the impact on infrastructure, especially with the large increase in traffic likely to be generated by the 440 homes. The developers have agreed to install a swing bridge across the canal at the bottom of Micklethwaite Lane to try to ease the road problems.

There will be an alternative gated access to the estate via Oakwood Drive in case of problems with the bridge, but there must also be concerns that once this has been used as an alternative, what guarantees can be given that it will stay locked and it won’t simply be constantly used?

Protesters also point out that there will be a huge impact on education services from the scheme because of increased pupil numbers at nearby schools and say the developers should be paying more than the £3m they have agreed to contribute in total to local services as part of a Section 106 Agreement. They have a point.

And if the Council cannot or will not listen to the voice of the people in an issue that has such a huge impact on the community as this one, it has to be asked. when will it hear their voices?