A HOUSING development which could have doubled the size of Eastburn was scrapped by developers this week.

And it was revealed that the land could be the site of a medieval village.

Taywood Homes had applied to build 184 houses on land behind Airedale Hospital.

The massive 10 hectare site would have seen a huge influx of people into the quiet village.

Bradford Council's Keighley area planning panel was set to refuse planning permission.

But when members met yesterday (Thursday), they were told that the scheme had been withdrawn at the last minute.

Nearly 250 objections were received against the plan, with villagers citing major traffic problems, loss of wildlife and an inadequate drainage system as reasons for planning permission to be refused.

A village action group was formed specifically to fight the application.

Its chairman, Lyndon Newton, told the Herald: "I'm just over the moon.

"I think I can speak for at least 95 per cent of the village when I say that it's wonderful news.

"Common sense has prevailed because the village can't stand development of such size.

"I wouldn't be so short-sighted as to think that there should be no development at all, but that should only be sanctioned when all other possibilities have been explored."

Mr Newton said the village owed a debt of gratitude to those who had fought the plan, including Keighley MP Ann Cryer and Bradford Council's leader Margaret Eaton.

It was also revealed this week that the green fields in question could have a secret history.

West Yorkshire Archaeology Service has identified part of the site as the location of a medieval barn.

It believes this could lead to the discovery of the remains of a medieval village and wants to carry out test digs.

A report by planning officers stated that the site broke new rules set out by Environment Secretary John Prescott last March.

He said all planning authorities should look at developing "used" sites, such as former mills and factories, before builders were allowed to plunder green fields.

And any new developments must be weighed up against the availability of jobs, shops and services, public transport and school places.

Bradford Education bosses had asked for £250,000 towards the cost of building extensions at Eastburn School if the houses went ahead.

Taywood Homes had already agreed to pay £67,500 towards improving sports facilities at the school if the planning application was passed.