It's feared a new housing development will lead to the rural hamlet of Brunthwaite being absorbed into Silsden.
Plans to build 72 homes on land at Drabble House Farm on the edge of Silsden were recently approved by Bradford Council, despite almost 400 objections.
The application by Newett Homes would see housing built on land off Hawber Lane in Silsden.
Although it is a rural site, only a small section of the land lies within the Green Belt.
The application went before Bradford Council’s Regulatory and Appeals Committee earlier this month. Planning officers had recommended the scheme be approved, pointing out that the land had previously been allocated as “safeguarded” – land previously set aside for development.
Several objectors raised concerns about the proximity of this site to Brunthwaite – a small hamlet just outside of Silsden.
The collection of cottages and converted farm buildings is currently separated from Silsden by the site the homes would be built on.
At the meeting Councillor Adrian Naylor of Silsden Town Council said:
“We object to these plans, which would merge the town of Silsden with Brunthwaite.
“This proposed development fails to provide any meaningful barrier or visual separation between the areas.
“It destroys the hamlet’s rural identity. It removes the field system that defines the Conservation Area. It destroys the open nature of the area.”
Bradford Council’s own Conservation Area Appraisal for Brunthwaite says: “The hamlet is a good example of an 18th century farm development centred around a ‘village’ green and beck.
“The conservation area is a good example of an unspoilt agricultural hamlet in an attractive rural setting.”
At the time of the appraisal in 2005 there were thought to be just 50 people living in Brunthwaite.
Planning officers argued that the Hawber Lane development would cause “less than substantial harm” to the hamlet and Conservation Area.
Councillor Matt Edwards (Green, Tong) said:
“It is an unspoiled agricultural hamlet being smashed together with Silsden. I can’t see how that’s less than substantial harm.”
Councillor Janet Russell (Green, Craven), speaking against the plans, referred to other housing developments in Silsden, saying:
“The town has gone through a huge expansion without any investment in infrastructure.”
Alistair Curran, representing the applicants, said:
“This application is not for people who already have homes, but those who are in need of housing.
“People already in Silsden are the ones who will benefit, it will enable families to live close to one another.”
Officers pointed out that Bradford was falling behind on its housing supply. Councils are supposed to be able to show they have a five-year supply of housing sites. Bradford’s housing land supply is currently just over two years.
The application would provide homes on a site previously set aside for housing.
22 of the homes would be allocated as affordable.
Three members of the committee voted to approve the plans, two voted against and one abstained.
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