PARISH councillors discussed outline plans for a major new development in Haworth.

They considered proposals for the former site of Ivy Bank Mill, Ivy Bank Lane.

The application is to develop about 30 retirement apartments or up to 40 residential homes.

Councillor David Mahon, chairman of Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council, said his main concern was the volume of traffic which would use the site’s vehicle access off Ivy Bank Lane.

Cllr Peter Clarke said he had no objection in principle to a brown field site being built on.

Cllr David Senior asked how long this sort of land is designated brown field, particularly in cases where it has been reclaimed by nature.

The council agreed to express concern about the recommended vehicle access and to seek clarification on the ownership of Ivy Bank Lane.

A design statement submitted on behalf of the applicant said: “The land at Ivy Bank Mill was previously occupied by a textile mill which was constructed in the late 19th century.The mill had fallen into a poor state of repair and its demolition was agreed with the council in 2013. The mill was subsequently demolished. Prior to the demolition of the mill, the site has been subject to a number of applications for residential redevelopment.

“Although approved, these permissions were never implemented due to viability issues and a lack of flexibility in approved plans and documents.”