VILLAGERS have been angered by plans to build a three-storey block of flats on a popular green area of Bramhope.

Residents were horrified to see plans by Cala Homes (Yorkshire) Ltd for a part three storey and part single storey block of 21 flats off Wynmore Avenue and Leeds Road.

The green land is used by many villagers as a footpath, and for walking their pets.

City and parish councillor Clive Fox said: "A number of people have been in contact with me to express their concern at this application.

"A number of issues have been raised particularly whether it is appropriate to build flats in a part of Bramhope where there are houses rather than flats. There is concern about the proposed access and the height of the proposed buildings as well."

There are fears the building scheme will involve demolishing an existing house to create an access road to the site, and has revived fears of hungry developers moving in similar plans.

Residents recently fought off plans by Bellway Homes to build flats, and there were concerns by members of Bramhope Parish Council when they discovered another developer offered to buy a number of houses in one street.

Councillors feared the character of the village could be harmed if existing houses and bungalows are replaced with high-density housing.

They claimed if one block of flats is built in the village, this could set a precedent for others.

Bramhope Parish Council is set to discuss the plan at its meeting next Wednesday.