Silsden MP Robbie Moore has raised deep concerns regarding proposals to construct another 72 new houses in Silsden after property developer Newett Homes announced their intention to submit a formal planning application to Bradford Council.
The proposals would see the construction of 72 houses in Silsden behind Aireville Crescent, with access being taken off Middleway.
The plans can be viewed in more detail at www.johnsonmowat.co.uk/public-consultations/middleway-silsden , where residents can provide feedback via the website response form, emailing directly at consultations@johnsonmowat.co.uk or writing to Johnson Mowat Planning, Coronet House, Queen Street, Leeds, LS1 2TW.
The announcement of the potential development comes less than 24 hours after the approval for another 44 houses to be built off Hainsworth Road, as well as an ongoing planning application by Persimmon Homes for 140 houses off Bolton Road.
In a letter to Silsden residents opposing the proposals, Silsden MP Robbie Moore raised his deep concerns regarding the “rapid expansion” of housing projects in Silsden, adding that “the current state of our infrastructure in Silsden simply cannot accommodate” further development.
Mr Moore says that the addition of more houses in Silsden will exacerbate traffic congestion on already busy roads, while putting additional pressure on the local school, doctors' surgery, and other vital infrastructure. He has also said that the housing developer Newett Homes should come to Silsden to hear people’s views in person rather than hiding behind a computer and doing their pre planning application consultation online.
The MP has contacted the developer urging them to organise a comprehensive 'in person' public consultation and is urging Bradford Council to “listen to the genuine concerns of Silsden residents” before the Council releases its 15-year local plan for housing developments. The Labour-controlled Council’s draft local plan currently identifies Silsden as a “local growth centre”.
Readers can view Mr Moore’s full letter to Silsden residents below.
Commenting on the proposals, Robbie Moore MP said:
“The announcement of a further 72 houses in Silsden behind Aireville Crescent with access off Middleway is deeply concerning as Silsden simply cannot cope with any more houses with its current infrastructure. The town is already grappling with unsustainable levels of housing development with absolutely no regard for improving our local infrastructure and the consequences of these developments are evident in our congested roads, strained community facilities, and a constant encroachment on our green spaces.
I am profoundly disappointed that Newett Homes has neglected to hold a proper public meeting to directly address residents' concerns and I have urged them to arrange a comprehensive 'in person' consultation to ensure that local voices are heard.
Silsden deserves better, and I also urge Labour-run Bradford Council to listen to the genuine concerns of Silsden residents before releasing its 15-year housing strategy which identifies further greenfield land for development on the outskirts of Silsden.”
