RESIDENTS of Ilkley are being asked to give their views on how the Ilkley College site should be developed.

In a bid to make friends with the people of Ilkley, the company which has won the housing development contract, Crest Homes (Northern) Ltd, wants to establish a dialogue with concerned groups and individuals.

The Ilkley campus will be sold off by its owners, Bradford and Ilkley College Corporation, next year if planning permission for housing is granted by Bradford Council.

Crest Homes has said its own ideas for the site are still very approximate. They will not become much more detailed until the consultation process nears completion.

Tony Vincent, managing director of Harrogate-based Crest Homes, said: "We are speaking to key groups within the town and are keen to hear from anyone who has strong views about the college site.

"It is a beautiful area and Crest Homes is committed to developing it in keeping with the town's heritage. We want Ilkley to be proud of what we do and we can only do that by listening to people now."

Although in its early stages, some guiding principles for development have been drawn up by Crest Homes. They include:

l Open spaces and parkland feel to the area.

l The Grade 2 listed Wells House will be kept and restored to much of its former glory.

l Development will not be above the treeline view from the moor.

l The 1960s accommodation blocks will be removed.

l Materials will be sympathetic to the heritage of the town.

Mr Vincent said: "It is still too early to say what types of homes will go on the site. Broadly, we are looking at it being a mixed development with homes to suit all family types and pockets. We also expect to convert Wells House into apartments.

"Whatever we do, the homes will be tailored to the site, they won't be intensively built and they will retain an open, parkland feel about them."

Crest Homes is producing a consultation document, including their first concepts for developing the site, which will be available from January 14. They are hoping to organise a public meeting in Ilkley in the near future.

Parish council chairman Alec Henderson said: "I think the consultation process is a good idea because the development will have a big impact on Ilkley. They are aware of the special place that area has had in Ilkley for years and years."

He added: "My impression is that they are anxious to consult with the public. Whatever they do all the plans will have to be submitted - we will see them and make recommendations to Bradford. It is important they explain to the people of Ilkley and get their support."

Anyone who wants to register their views or receive a copy of the consultation document when produced, should call Crest Homes on 01423 501661.

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