Objections lodged over plan for 55 new homes

More than 100 people have objected to plans to build 55 new homes and health facilities in a West Yorkshire village.

Residents opposed to the proposed development in Notton, Wakefield, raised concerns about an increase in local traffic and the impact on wildlife in the area.

Others complained the construction of properties could create a flood risk and said there was a lack of local school places to accommodate the new homes.

The developer, who submitted the plans to Wakefield Council in December, described it as a "once in a generation opportunity" for the village, with a "balanced and inclusive housing mix".

Part of the site is designated as green belt land, but the plans said the site should be redefined as "grey belt".

The "grey belt" is a recent concept launched by senior government ministers charged with tackling a shortage of UK homes and driving economic growth.

The idea is that parts of the green belt are of "poor quality and ugly" and should therefore be considered suitable for development.

Relatives of the current landowner of the 5.5 acre site, off Bleakley Avenue, built the original dwellings in the mid-20th Century, the planning statement said, so the scheme would "proudly continue that tradition".

"The proposals will provide one to four-bedroom dwellings that meet the needs of all parts of the community," it continued.

"This includes affordable homes for local families, retirement bungalows for older residents, starter apartments for first-time buyers and larger executive homes that allow households to grow without leaving the area."

A community hub would house a GP surgery, dental practice and pharmacy, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A total of 130 objections have been submitted since the plans were put forward.

One resident said: "If a doctor's surgery is part of the plan, this is many more journeys down a small rural road network."

Another opponent added: "This is green belt land and, once lost, can never be replaced.

"The area is home to many species of wildlife, in particular birds of prey."

The developer said: "It is a development born out of a local family legacy, offering the opportunity to modernise housing while strengthening the services and amenities that the whole community relies upon."

Wakefield Council has currently received four comments in favour of the development, with planning officers yet to make a decision on the application.

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