A row over the type of stone to be used in the construction of new homes in Haworth has been settled.

Bradford council and Skipton Properties boss Brian Verity have agreed that natural stone will be used to construct the 24 terraced houses on land off Victoria Road.

Keighley's Town and County planning sub-committee insisted earlier this month that the firm use natural stone so the development was in keeping with other homes in the area.

But Mr Verity appealed to planners to allow him to use cheaper artificial stone. He said the decision could force him to sack 25 workers because it would make the project too costly and he might have to abandon the scheme.

He said Yorkshire stone was about £90,000 more costly than using artificial material and it would make the houses more expensive than the £55,000-£60,000 expected selling price.

Worth Valley councillor John Cope, the sub-committee chairman, says: "I am pleased that a satisfactory outcome has been achieved so quickly. This was a prominent site which was left an eyesore by the previous owner and the use of natural stone will add to the special character of Haworth."

Mr Verity is on holiday and not available for comment.

and a company representative said they were not in a position to speak about the development.

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