A LEADING highways expert has backed a report that claims traffic increases as a result of new homes being built at High Royds would be much less than feared.

The research was commissioned by The Raven Group, which hopes to create 560 new homes at the old hospital site, from highways consultants Sanderson Assoc-iates.

It found that levels of traffic on the A65 surrounding the area could increase by as little as seven to 10 per cent - and claimed that many more vehicles would be using the A65 if High Royds was re-opened as a hospital.

However, those findings were fiercely disputed by opponents of the plans, which claimed traffic could rise by as much as one third if the scheme, which goes before Leeds planners today, was approved.

But now Dr David Milne, senior research fellow at Leeds University's Institute for Transport Studies, has cast an eye over Sanderson's conclusions - and believes they are more accurate than the figures quoted by the objectors.

Referring to the overall scheme, Dr Milne said: "It should be noted that the hospital had been reduced in size over the years and that if it were to be fully reopened, with 2,500 beds, the traffic generated would probably be greater than from the current proposal."

The Raven Group's additional plans to keep car use to a minimum, which include providing a free Metrocard for every home, were also described by Dr Milne in his independent assessment as "extremely progressive".

The proposals provide for a free shuttle bus, which would circle the estate at 15-minute intervals and take passengers to Menston railway station.

Prepared in talks with Metro, the West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Authority, the hi-tech scheme involves putting up special bus gates to prevent cars from using the route.

Each bus and pick up point would be fitted with a computerised display system, informing passengers of current public transport movements in the area and the next available bus or train.

On the roads, £1.25 million has already been committed toward improvements at three junctions on the A65, while the developer plans to provide improved parking arrangements for nearby St Mary's RC Comprehensive School

Ben Krauze, who is in charge of the project for the Raven Group, explained: "We were aware, right from the start of the planning process, of concerns that any new development may add to traffic congestion.

"For that reason, we have given special emphasis to traffic issues both within the site and on the surrounding roads, in particular the A65.

"Where possible, we are encouraging people to leave their cars and travel by other means."