by Jonathan Redhead T&A Reporter Developers hope work could soon start on three controversial blocks of flats in Ilkley – more than four years after planning permission was granted.

And Jimmy Marshall, of Century Homes, says despite the delays and opposition, the new homes are still “the right thing to build” in the town.

He said his company had been in dialogue with residents who were concerned about the project, at Brookfield Croft, in Bolling Road, Ben Rhydding.

Despite more than 50 people voicing objections to the flats, outline planning permission was granted by Bradford Council in April 2006, followed by full permission for 19 new homes with 31 car parking spaces in July, 2007.

The plans involved demolishing a derelict bungalow and contained other conditions, but in April last year the site was put up for sale for nearly £1m.

Century Homes, of Bradford, acquired the land and it has now made several applications.

Mr Marshall said once all the remaining planning conditions were satisfied building work could begin and would take about a year to complete.

“We are working towards satisfying all the remaining planning conditions required before we start on site,” he said. “All are now applied for and we are waiting for the Council’s decisions.

“It is still undoubtedly a challenging environment for the housing sector.

“However, we believe that a development of this quality so close to the centre of Ilkley is the right thing to build.”

At the time of the initial planning application, many people complained the project was too big, too intrusive and out of keeping with the character of the surrounding area.